Himachal Pradesh High Court Orders Panchayat Elections by April 30, 2026
Court Mandates Timely Elections
Munish Sood
Mandi
The Himachal Pradesh High Court has made a pivotal ruling regarding grassroots democracy, instructing the state government to organize Panchayat elections by April 30, 2026. This decision followed three days of hearings on petitions that questioned the delays in the electoral process.
A Division Bench, led by Justice Vivek Singh Thakur and Justice Ramesh Verma, mandated that the State Election Commission and the government finalize all necessary procedures by February 28 and initiate the election process starting February 20.
The court emphasized that constitutional bodies cannot be indefinitely suspended and that democratic processes should not be delayed for administrative reasons. It directed the State Election Commission and the government to collaboratively develop a comprehensive plan to ensure the elections are held on time.
Considerations During the Hearing
During the proceedings, the court acknowledged the academic calendar, noting that board examinations would take place in March, complicating the use of school facilities as polling stations. Given that exams would last nearly a month, the court determined that April would be the most suitable time for the elections.
Nand Lal, representing the petitioners, argued that elections should conclude before April 30.
The state government had requested an extension of six months, citing logistical and administrative hurdles. The State Election Commission also raised concerns, indicating that February and March would be occupied with board exams, followed by the deployment of government personnel for census activities starting in May. Additionally, it pointed out that conducting elections in July and August would be impractical due to the monsoon season.
After considering all arguments, the High Court issued its ruling, having previously reserved its decision on Wednesday.
Impending Expiration of Panchayat Tenures
The terms of Panchayati Raj institutions in Himachal Pradesh are set to expire on January 31, 2026, while the terms of 50 urban local bodies will end on January 18.
The state comprises:
• 3,577 Gram Panchayats
• 90 Panchayat Samitis
• 11 Zila Parishads
• 71 Urban Local Bodies
On November 19, the State Election Commission had enacted orders under Clause 2.1 of the Model Code of Conduct, prohibiting the establishment of new panchayats and ward delimitation.
As the current bodies' terms expire, the government is expected to appoint administrators until the newly elected officials assume their roles.
Government's Justification for Delay
The Sukhu administration had previously defended the postponement of elections, citing the aftermath of last year's monsoon disaster. It claimed that many rural areas remained inaccessible due to damaged infrastructure, complicating the election process within the designated timeframe.
The opposition accused the government of intentionally delaying elections and undermining grassroots democratic institutions.
Chief Minister's Reaction to the Ruling
In response to the High Court's decision, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu expressed dissatisfaction, arguing that the state is currently governed by the Disaster Management Act.
“The Disaster Management Act is a central law enacted by Parliament. This ruling seems to undermine the Act's relevance. The government will assess the legal ramifications of this judgment,” Sukhu stated.
He noted that a legal interpretation is necessary and that the government would present its stance to the High Court. Nevertheless, the Chief Minister indicated his personal support for holding elections in April or May.
Government's Plan to Review the Verdict
Cabinet Minister Rajesh Dharmani mentioned that the government would thoroughly analyze the ruling.
“We will review the decision in detail during the Cabinet meeting and take appropriate actions accordingly,” Dharmani remarked, dismissing the BJP's claims as politically motivated.
Opposition Welcomes Court's Decision
Former Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur praised the High Court's ruling.
“The High Court's decision regarding Panchayat elections is commendable. From the outset, the Sukhu government has attempted to undermine the constitutional rights of the populace. This attitude, disguised as system reform, is deeply regrettable,” Thakur stated.
Court Affirms Democratic Principles
The High Court reiterated that democratic institutions are fundamental to governance and cannot be suspended indefinitely due to administrative or logistical challenges. It stressed that conducting elections is a constitutional duty that must be fulfilled within a reasonable timeframe.
With this ruling, the government is now under a clear judicial obligation to ensure that Panchayat elections in Himachal Pradesh take place before the end of April.