Chandigarh: In a move aimed at tightening oversight of the nomination process for upcoming local body elections, the Punjab State Election Commission has directed all Deputy Commissioners, who also serve as District Electoral Officers, to record the filing of nominations for Zila Parishad and Panchayat Samiti seats. The officials have been asked to preserve all footage securely under their supervision.
The directive follows a series of complaints from Opposition parties, which have alleged that their nominees were obstructed from submitting papers, either through physical intimidation or by the alleged absence of officials responsible for issuing mandatory documents and receiving nominations. The Commission has responded by reinforcing guidelines to maintain order and ensure transparency throughout the process.
To prevent disruptions and maintain law and order, district administrations have been told to arrange robust security at nomination centres. State Election Commissioner Raj Kamal Chaudhari has cautioned district authorities that any lapse will invite strict consequences, underscoring the Commission’s concern over reports emerging from various districts.
With Thursday marking the final day for filing papers for 22 Zila Parishads and 153 Panchayat Samitis—set to go to polls on December 14—the state has already seen a steady stream of candidates. As of Wednesday, officials reported that 285 nominations had been submitted for Zila Parishad seats, along with 1,713 for Panchayat Samiti positions.
The Commission has also reminded Deputy Commissioners to ensure the consistent presence of returning officers, assistant returning officers, and those tasked with issuing required certifications during working hours, seeking to avoid any administrative delays that could affect candidates’ rights to participate in the electoral process.
