Himachal Pradesh Set for Panchayati Raj Elections in May

The State Election Commission of Himachal Pradesh has announced the dates for the upcoming Panchayati Raj elections, set for May 26, 28, and 30, 2026. With over 5 million eligible voters, the elections will fill 31,182 positions across various panchayats, emphasizing gender representation with 15,656 seats reserved for women. The nomination process begins on May 7, and the counting of votes will take place shortly after polling. Notably, elections will not occur in four panchayats in Kullu district. The commission is committed to ensuring a fair and peaceful electoral process.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 28, 2026, 17:18 IST

Upcoming Elections for Panchayati Raj Institutions

Munish Sood
Mandi

The State Election Commission has officially declared the dates for the Panchayati Raj elections in Himachal Pradesh, initiating a three-phase voting process across rural regions. The elections are scheduled for May 26, 28, and 30, covering a total of 31,182 positions across 3,754 gram panchayats, with the Model Code of Conduct now in effect.

According to State Election Commissioner Anil Khachi, more than 5.079 million voters are eligible to participate in these elections. The voting will determine the selection of 21,654 ward members, 1,769 panchayat samiti members, and 251 zila parishad members.

Nominations will be accepted on May 7, 8, and 11, with the scrutiny of these nominations taking place on May 12. Candidates will have the opportunity to withdraw their nominations on May 14 and 15.

The counting of votes for the positions of gram panchayat pradhan, up-pradhan, and ward members will occur on the same day as polling at the respective panchayat headquarters. Meanwhile, votes for panchayat samiti and zila parishad members will be counted on May 31.

Of the total 31,182 positions, 15,656 are reserved for women, highlighting a significant effort to enhance gender representation at the grassroots level. Notably, elections will not be conducted in four panchayats located in Kullu district, while the remaining areas will proceed with the elections as planned.

The State Election Commission has instructed all district election officials to ensure that the electoral process is carried out in a transparent, fair, and peaceful manner, with administrative preparations already in progress throughout the state.