Govt Intends to Postpone PRI Polls, BJP Says ‘Fear of Defeat Behind Move’
Shimla, 9 October
The Himachal Pradesh government has reportedly intended to postpone the Panchayati Raj Institution (PRI) elections due by December, citing the massive destruction caused by recent natural disasters that claimed over 400 lives and damaged thousands of homes, crops, roads, schools, and other public properties.
Several Deputy Commissioners are said to have written to the Rural Development Department and the State Election Commission, flagging the “practical difficulties in conducting elections” due to the incomplete restoration works in their districts.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has so far maintained silence on the issue, though officials indicate the government is simultaneously working on the roster process for PRI polls — a necessary step before the election notification.
The Opposition BJP has accused the Congress government of “hiding behind disaster excuses” to delay polls, claiming the ruling party fears a humiliating defeat in rural constituencies.
“This government knows the ground reality — the people are angry. Now they’re using DCs as scapegoats, making them write letters to justify postponement,” a senior BJP spokesperson said.
Political observers note that any delay in the elections could trigger criticism not just from the BJP but also from within Congress, where local leaders are keen to assert their grassroots influence.
Chief Minister Sukhu said the election schedule would be notified soon and BJP is in habit of spreading falsehoods.
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