Panaji Municipal Elections: One-Third of Seats Reserved for Women in March Polls
The upcoming Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP) election, scheduled for March, will feature a significant reservation of one-third of its seats for women candidates. This move aims to enhance female representation in urban local governance.
Ward Reservation Details Announced by Commission
The Goa State Election Commission officially notified the reservation of wards for the CCP election on Tuesday. According to the notification, 14 wards have been reserved for the general category. The remaining wards are allocated for Other Backward Classes (OBCs), women within the general category, and the Scheduled Tribes (ST) category, ensuring a diverse and inclusive electoral process.
Upcoming Elections for Municipal Councils
In addition to the CCP election, the commission is considering holding elections for all 11 municipal councils simultaneously in May. This decision comes as the terms of some municipal councils conclude in April, with the rest ending in May this year. The commission aims to streamline the electoral process by conducting these polls together.
Historical Context of Urban Local Body Elections
Elections for six urban local bodies—Bicholim, Pernem, Valpoi, Cuncolim, Curchorem-Cacora, and Canacona—were successfully conducted in March 2021. Subsequently, elections for Mapusa, Margao, Quepem, Sanguem, and Mormugao took place in April 2021. These past elections provide a framework for the upcoming polls.
Electoral Roll and Special Intensive Revision
The elections for the 11 urban bodies are expected to be conducted based on the new electoral roll published by the Election Commission of India. This roll will be finalized after the completion and notification of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR), ensuring an updated and accurate voter list for the elections.
The TOI had previously reported that the commission would announce reservation details shortly, confirming the timely dissemination of information to the public. This proactive approach by the Goa State Election Commission underscores its commitment to transparent and efficient electoral management.
