No early panchayat elections in Odisha, clarifies State Election Commission

The Odisha State Election Commission clarified on Sunday that the panchayat elections will not be conducted ahead of schedule and will be held only after the completion of the stipulated five-year tenure. The clarification was given by State Election Commissioner Madhusudan Padhi amid speculation over the timing of the rural local body polls.

Padhi said that no decision has yet been taken regarding the conduct of the panchayat elections and that the matter would be decided at the appropriate time, in accordance with constitutional provisions. He, however, confirmed that preparatory work has already begun to ensure readiness once the election process is formally initiated.

Preparations Begin At Subdivision Level

According to the State Election Commissioner, preparations for the polls have started at the subdivision level. He said that meetings with district collectors have been held within the past 10 to 12 days to review preliminary arrangements and to streamline the groundwork required for the conduct of the elections.

Padhi stated that instructions have been issued to begin preparatory activities related to polling infrastructure, including the identification of polling booths, availability of ballot boxes and other essential logistical requirements. He added that the Commission would closely monitor the progress of these arrangements at various administrative levels.

Decision To Follow Completion Of Tenure

Reiterating the Commission’s stand, Padhi said that the elections would be held only after the existing panchayat bodies complete their five-year term. “Preparations have started at the division levels, and meetings have been held with collectors in the last 12 days. Directions have been issued to begin work related to booths, ballot boxes and other required items, and we will follow up on this accordingly. No decision has been taken on the panchayat elections yet. After the completion of the five-year tenure, the elections will be held,” he said.