Voter enthusiasm remained high across Himachal Pradesh during the final phase of panchayat elections, with rain failing to dampen participation. Preliminary reports indicate a significant turnout, with women voters demonstrating higher engagement than men in many districts.
High Turnout in Final Phase of Himachal Panchayat Elections
The second phase of the Himachal Pradesh rural body elections saw nearly 80 percent of voters cast their ballots across 1,276 panchayats. This turnout marks an increase from the 76 percent recorded in the second phase of the 2021 panchayat polls, with the 2026 figures reaching 79.79 percent. The polling process was largely peaceful, with state election officials reporting no major untoward incidents across the state.
According to details received by The Chenab Times, women voters surpassed men in turnout in nine out of the twelve districts where polling took place. The overall female voter turnout stood at 82.97 percent, compared to 76.69 percent for male voters. This trend of women outperforming men in electoral participation has been a notable feature of the ongoing panchayat elections in Himachal Pradesh.
District-Wise Turnout and Notable Trends
Kullu district recorded the highest voter turnout at 85.52 percent, followed closely by Sirmaur at 85.16 percent. Other districts with high participation included Solan (83.62 percent), Mandi (80.96 percent), and Shimla (80.68 percent). Chamba reported a turnout of 79.99 percent, while Una recorded 79.73 percent. Bilaspur registered 78.95 percent, Kangra and Kinnaur both at 76.29 percent, and Hamirpur at 74.94 percent. Lahaul and Spiti district recorded the lowest turnout at 69.38 percent.
In one instance, villagers in Ward No. 1 of Kangri, under Ree Gram Panchayat in Hamirpur district, boycotted the elections. This decision was attributed to years of stalled development work and unresolved local issues. The residents of this ward had previously issued an ultimatum, demanding either a merger with a different panchayat or the formation of a separate one, citing the considerable distance to the current Panchayat Bhawan.
Context of Himachal Panchayat Elections
The panchayat elections are crucial for the grassroots democratic structure of Himachal Pradesh, involving the election of Pradhans, Up-Pradhans, and ward members. These elections provide a platform for local governance and community development initiatives. The State Election Commission, led by Anil Khachi, oversaw the conduct of these polls, ensuring adherence to electoral procedures and maintaining law and order.
The elections are being held in phases, with the first phase covering 1,293 panchayats and the second phase encompassing 1,276 panchayats. A third and final phase is scheduled for May 30, covering the remaining 1,274 panchayats. The counting of votes for the posts of Pradhan, Up-Pradhan, and ward members is conducted immediately after polling, with results for block samiti and zila parishad members, as well as for four municipal corporations, scheduled for announcement on May 31.
Voters, including a significant number of women, men, and individuals belonging to the third gender, were eligible to exercise their franchise. The State Election Commission had made provisions to facilitate voting, with efforts to ensure a smooth and accessible process for all eligible citizens. The high turnout, particularly among women, underscores their increasing engagement and participation in the democratic process at the local level.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
