TNR News Network
Shimla:
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has confirmed that panchayat elections in Himachal Pradesh will not be postponed and will take place as per the scheduled timeline, despite the widespread devastation caused by the monsoon.
Responding to a query in the state Assembly from Nalagarh Congress MLA Hardeep Singh Baba, the Chief Minister clarified that the government had no intention of delaying the polls. Baba had raised concerns over the severe damage inflicted on roads, schools and polling booths in various panchayats following weeks of relentless rain. He asked whether the government was considering a deferral of the elections in view of the ground situation.
In response, CM Sukhu said the state was committed to conducting elections on time. “Despite the challenges caused by the monsoon, we will ensure that democratic processes are not interrupted. Adequate arrangements will be made to facilitate polling in all affected areas,” he assured the House.
Himachal Pradesh has been grappling with one of the most destructive monsoon seasons in recent memory. Landslides, flashfloods and road collapses have left several regions isolated. According to the state disaster management authorities, more than 500 roads are still blocked or damaged, and numerous rural link routes, bridges and public buildings have been washed away. Schools and community halls, commonly used as polling stations, have not been spared either, suffering structural damage that could pose logistical challenges for election officials.
Despite these setbacks, the Chief Minister said that restoration work was underway across the state, and in areas where polling booths had been damaged, alternative arrangements would be made to ensure that voters were not inconvenienced. The government is also coordinating with district administrations to restore connectivity and essential services ahead of the polls.
