Shimla: A total of 10,854 candidates have been elected unopposed in the ongoing panchayati raj institution (PRI) elections in Himachal Pradesh following the withdrawal of nomination papers. Additionally, 131 gram panchayats were elected unanimously without any contest.
Details of Unopposed Elections
According to the state election commission, those elected unopposed include 85 panchayat samiti members, 176 gram panchayat pradhans, 286 up-pradhans, and 10,307 ward members. This large number of unopposed candidates highlights the lack of competition in many areas.
Polling Schedule
As per the notification issued on April 29, polling for elections to 3,754 gram panchayats will be held in three phases on May 26, May 28, and May 30. The elections are being conducted for a total of 31,182 posts, which include 21,654 gram panchayat members, 3,754 pradhans, 3,754 up-pradhans, 1,679 panchayat samiti members, and 251 zila parishad members.
Voter Eligibility and Results
More than 50.79 lakh voters, including over 52,000 first-time voters, are eligible to cast their votes in these elections. Results for gram panchayat members, pradhans, and up-pradhans will be declared on the day of polling itself. However, results for panchayat samiti and zila parishad members will be announced on May 31.
Nomination and Scrutiny Process
Nomination papers were filed on May 7, 8, and 11, while scrutiny was carried out on May 12 and 13. Election symbols were allotted after the withdrawal of nominations on May 15. The election commission has made all necessary arrangements for a smooth polling process across the state.
