The issue of local body elections in Andhra Pradesh has once again been pushed into uncertainty, with no immediate clarity on when the polls will be conducted. Official indications suggest that elections to local institutions are unlikely to take place for at least the next two years, extending an already prolonged delay.
Local elections in the state have remained a subject of sustained political and administrative discussion. Despite repeated references to the matter, no firm timeline has emerged from the authorities responsible for conducting the polls.
Proposal to introduce EVMs remains unresolved
When Neelam Sahni served as the State Election Commissioner last year, she formally proposed conducting local body elections using Electronic Voting Machines. Letters were sent to both the State Government and the Election Commission of India seeking approval for the shift from the traditional ballot system.
However, no decision has been taken so far on this proposal. Historically, local body elections in the state have always been conducted through ballot papers. While the idea of adopting EVMs was considered in view of changing technology, the lack of approval from the State Government has left the proposal pending.
Caste census and administrative constraints
The unfolding administrative calendar has further reduced the possibility of early elections. With preparations underway for population-related exercises and caste enumeration, officials indicate that conditions are not conducive for conducting local polls in the near term.
A nationwide caste census is scheduled to begin from February, placing additional constraints on the election calendar. The Election Commission of India has directed that local body elections across the country should be completed by February 20 in light of the census exercise.
National timelines impact state elections
In line with this directive, Telangana announced schedules for municipal and corporation elections, with polling fixed for February 11. After February 20, local body elections are not expected to be held anywhere in the country.
Further, the caste census is set to begin nationwide between February 21 and 25. During this period, changes to district or mandal boundaries will not be permitted, further limiting the scope for electoral exercises.
No elections likely until 2028
Looking ahead, the next population census is scheduled for 2027. Taken together, officials assess that there is little possibility of local body elections being conducted in Andhra Pradesh until 2028. As a result, the continuation of governance through special officers is being seen as a likely administrative arrangement in the interim.
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