In a significant administrative decision, the Chandigarh Union Territory administration has opted to maintain the current structure of its municipal corporation by retaining the existing 35 wards. This move effectively puts on hold the process of delimitation, or redrawing of ward boundaries, which was under consideration.
The Decision and Its Rationale
The decision was formalized after a thorough review by the UT administration. Officials concluded that the present arrangement of 35 municipal wards continues to serve the city effectively. The administration has now forwarded its recommendation to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) in New Delhi for the final stamp of approval. This step is crucial as the MHA holds the ultimate authority in such matters concerning Union Territories.
The context for this review stems from the provisions of the Punjab Municipal Corporation Act (Extension to Chandigarh) Act, 1994. This act mandates a periodic reassessment of the number and boundaries of municipal wards. The last major delimitation exercise was conducted over a decade ago, leading to the increase from 26 to 35 wards. The current administration's choice to retain the status quo suggests a belief that the existing ward distribution still adequately represents the city's population and demographic shifts.
Process and Political Implications
The procedure for any change is elaborate. Had the administration decided to proceed with delimitation, it would have required the formation of a dedicated Delimitation Commission. This independent body would have been tasked with the complex job of redrawing ward maps, a process that often has direct implications for political fortunes and local representation.
By choosing to keep the 35-ward structure, the administration has avoided a potentially lengthy and politically sensitive process just ahead of the next scheduled municipal elections. This decision provides stability and allows political parties and sitting councillors to operate within a known electoral framework. It ensures that the groundwork for the upcoming polls can proceed without the uncertainty of new ward boundaries.
What Happens Next?
All eyes are now on the Ministry of Home Affairs. The Chandigarh administration's recommendation is awaiting the ministry's final nod. While the UT's decision strongly indicates the likely outcome, the MHA's approval is the last formal step required to officially cement the continuation of the 35-ward system.
Once the ministry grants its approval, the State Election Commission will be clear to initiate the process for the next municipal elections based on the existing ward demarcations. This includes updating electoral rolls and announcing the election schedule when the term of the current House concludes.
This administrative move underscores a preference for continuity in Chandigarh's civic governance structure. It highlights a calculated decision to prioritize a stable and predictable electoral environment over undertaking a comprehensive boundary revision exercise at this juncture. The final authority, however, rests with the central government's Home Ministry.
