Jammu, June 24: The All Jammu and Kashmir Panchayat Conference (AJKPC) on Monday strongly criticised the political leadership, the Lieutenant Governor’s office, and legislators across party lines for their silence over the vacant post of State Election Commissioner in Jammu and Kashmir. The body accused them of neglecting grassroots democracy by failing to demand timely panchayat and urban local body elections.
Speaking at a press conference, AJKPC president Anil Sharma condemned the lack of urgency and seriousness shown by elected representatives regarding panchayati raj institutions.
“If they really cared about grassroots democracy and the rights of people at the village level, at least one leader would have raised this issue with the government, the LG, or even in the media,” Sharma said.
No Poll Chief for Over a Month
Sharma pointed out that it has been over a month since the term of the previous State Election Commissioner ended, yet no appointment has been made, and no political party has voiced concern over the vacancy.
“On other issues — even those unrelated to J&K — politicians speak loudly. But on something as crucial as local elections, they remain silent,” he said.
Polls Overdue by 18 Months
Under the Jammu and Kashmir Panchayati Raj Act, only the State Election Commission has the legal mandate to conduct panchayat and urban local body elections. Sharma noted that these elections are already overdue by 18 months, and yet there is no initiative from the administration to begin preparations.
He also alleged political apathy, stating that MLAs across parties are unwilling to hold grassroots-level polls, likely due to their own political calculations.
Appeal to Bureaucrats and Raj Bhavan
Sharma appealed to the bureaucrats working with the Raj Bhavan, urging them to uphold constitutional values over individual will:
“Officers are there to serve the people. Individuals come and go, but institutions are permanent. Bureaucrats must protect these democratic institutions.”
Upcoming Campaign for Elections
The AJKPC announced its intention to launch a full-scale campaign across Jammu and Kashmir demanding early panchayat elections. The campaign will begin after the Amarnath Yatra and Independence Day celebrations. A detailed letter has also been sent to the Lieutenant Governor and Chief Minister, urging them to fill the post of the State Election Commissioner immediately.
Sharma reiterated that the AJKPC would continue to press for timely elections, calling it essential for the restoration and strengthening of grassroots democracy in Jammu and Kashmir.