Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma Indicates February Panchayat Polls Possible If Court Judgement Received by Midnight

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated that the panchayat elections might occur in February if the Gauhati High Court delivers its judgement on related petitions by Friday midnight. If not, the polls will be postponed. After a state cabinet meeting, Sarma mentioned that if the judgement is unavailable by midnight, elections will be delayed until after school board exams starting February 14.

The Chief Minister revealed that the advocate general informed him that the judgement is being prepared. If it arrives before midnight, election notifications can be issued for two phases on February 10 and 12. "Governments usually avoid panchayat elections before assembly polls to minimise risks, but we are keen to proceed," he remarked.

Panchayat Polls and Legal Challenges

The high court had previously instructed the State Election Commission not to announce panchayat elections without its consent until January 9. This decision followed several writ petitions challenging the delimitation process. Sarma attributed these legal challenges to 19 panchayats in Karimganj Lok Sabha constituency.

Congress leader Hafiz Rashid Ahmed Choudhury, who lost in the parliamentary elections from Karimganj, along with some opposition figures, is allegedly attempting to disrupt the democratic process. The Chief Minister expressed concern about potential complications if elections are deferred beyond February.

Implications of Election Delays

Sarma noted that once postponed, uncertainties might arise after exams conclude. He highlighted potential issues like floods and other unforeseen problems. Before court petitions emerged, the state government had planned to complete elections by February 10.

The Chief Minister emphasised the importance of panchayat elections for grassroots democracy. He stressed that holding these elections is crucial for maintaining democratic processes at local levels.

In wrapping up his remarks, Sarma reiterated the significance of conducting timely panchayat polls. He underscored their role in strengthening democracy at the community level, despite challenges and potential delays.