Panchayat elections: Punjab and Haryana High Court issues ultimatum to Punjab over irregularities
Seeks clarification whether govt intends to withdraw election notification and undertake a more efficient electoral process
Panchayat elections: In a decisive move, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has taken a firm stance on the series of legal challenges surrounding the Panchayat elections in the state. The HC flayed the Punjab Government for its handling of the electoral process and demanded an explanation regarding the appointment of State Election Commissioner Raj Kamal Chaudhuri within one hour.
During the proceedings, the Punjab and Haryana High Court highlighted concerns over the prevailing chaos and potential breaches of democratic norms, stating, "The government must clarify whether it intends to withdraw the election notification and undertake a more efficient electoral process. If not, the court will have no choice but to issue strict orders."
The High Court stated that Raj Kamal Chaudhuri had retired as an IAS officer in April, which means he was not eligible to issue the election notification. According to the Act, only a serving IAS officer or a retired High Court judge can be appointed as the State Election Commissioner. Raj Kamal Chaudhuri issued the election notification in September, despite having retired in April.