J&K Faces Grassroots Vacuum: DDC Terms Expiring
- Elections for local bodies in Jammu and Kashmir, specifically Panchayats and Block Progress Councils (BDCs), have faced delays despite their terms expiring, raising questions about the need for...
- Panchayat elections in Jammu and Kashmir were last held in 2018, wiht the elected representatives' terms concluding in 2023.
- Expectations for elections in 2024 were not met, with authorities citing pending amendments as the reason for the postponement.
Elections for local bodies in Jammu and Kashmir, specifically Panchayats and Block Progress Councils (BDCs), have faced delays despite their terms expiring, raising questions about the need for repeated polling without constitutional changes. The situation has prompted scrutiny from the region’s Chief Minister.
Jammu and Kashmir Panchayat Elections: Status and Delays
Panchayat elections in Jammu and Kashmir were last held in 2018, wiht the elected representatives’ terms concluding in 2023. As of January 28, 2026, fresh elections have not been conducted. BDC polls took place in October 2019, further highlighting the extended period without updated local governance structures.
Expectations for elections in 2024 were not met, with authorities citing pending amendments as the reason for the postponement. The specific nature of these amendments remains unclear.
Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Department Response
The Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister, Javeed Ahmad Dar, has not publicly provided a timeline for the upcoming elections as of January 28, 2026. Requests for comment regarding a potential schedule have gone unanswered.
This lack of interaction has fueled speculation about the reasons behind the delays and the government’s plans for local governance in the region.
The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019 and local Governance
The delays in holding Panchayat and BDC elections are occurring in the context of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019, which restructured the state into two Union Territories. This act significantly altered the constitutional framework governing local governance in the region.
The Chief Minister’s questioning of the utility of repeated polls without a constitutional upgrade suggests a desire for a more stable and legally sound foundation for local democratic institutions. The Act itself provides the framework for these institutions, but amendments might potentially be necessary to address specific challenges or ensure effective functioning.
For example, Section 13 of the Act deals with the constitution of Panchayats and Municipalities, but subsequent rules and regulations are needed to operationalize these provisions effectively.