The State Election Commission is in a dilemma after the order of the Nainital High Court in view of the three-tier panchayat elections in the remaining 12 districts of the state except Haridwar. According to State Election Commissioner Sushil Kumar, in the order of the High Court, legal examination is being done on the points related to the election.
He said that the commission will clarify the situation on the whole subject on Sunday. The process of panchayat elections started with the filing of nomination papers on July 2. After this, the nomination papers were scrutinized from July 7 to 9. Nominations have also been withdrawn on July 10 and 11. Meanwhile, questions were also raised regarding the voter list of panchayats. It came to light that the names of many persons are registered in the voter lists of Panchayat and urban bodies.
As per the rules, there can be a name at only one place in the voter list. This matter also reached the Nainital High Court. The High Court has also raised questions about the name at two places in the voter list. Now after the order of the High Court, the State Election Commission is in a dilemma as to what decision it should take.
According to State Election Commissioner Sushil Kumar, panchayat elections are being conducted as per the provisions contained in the Panchayati Raj Act. In view of the High Court’s order, all aspects are being deliberated upon.
In this sequence, legal opinion is being taken on some points related to the election. He said that under the ongoing panchayat election process in the state, election symbols are to be allotted for the first phase of elections on July 14. He said that in view of all this, the situation will be clarified on Sunday.
Options before the Commission
Guidelines should be sought from the High Court regarding the election.
Nominations of such persons should be cancelled whose names are in two places.
The High Court’s order should be challenged in the Supreme Court
