Sunil Chadha
Shimla:
The Himachal Pradesh government has called a crucial Cabinet meeting on October 25, which may see the Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu-led administration taking a final call on the much-awaited panchayat elections. The meeting will be held at the state Secretariat in Shimla at noon under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Sukhu.
According to government sources, the agenda includes several key proposals, including the discussion on the tenure extension of Shimla Municipal Corporation’s Mayor and Deputy Mayor. However, the primary focus is expected to be on the uncertainty surrounding the timing of the panchayati raj elections, which have been delayed following the monsoon-triggered devastation across the state.
Panchayat polls likely to be discussed
With panchayat elections pending, the government is expected to deliberate on holding them within the constitutional timeframe. The reservation roster for these polls has not yet been released, adding to the uncertainty. The Cabinet could take a decisive step to clarify whether the elections will proceed soon or be deferred further in view of damaged infrastructure in several districts.
Earlier, the state government had postponed the elections after recommendations from district administrations, citing poor road connectivity and flood-affected areas. However, as weather conditions have now improved and the monsoon has officially withdrawn, the Cabinet may review the situation and issue fresh directions.
Relief, rehabilitation to be fast-tracked
The meeting is also likely to focus on speeding up post-disaster relief and reconstruction work. Himachal Pradesh suffered massive losses during the monsoon season this year.
Over 10,600 kmof roads, including major national highways and district routes, were damaged, while more than 2,100 culverts and 86 bridges were affected. Fourteen bridges were completely washed away. The government may consider additional funding and departmental coordination to accelerate repair and rehabilitation efforts.
Job opportunities for youth on cards
The upcoming Cabinet meeting may also bring good news for the state’s unemployed youth. With the unemployment rate rising, the Sukhu government is expected to discuss creating new posts and filling existing vacancies across various departments.
Sources said that hundreds of new positions could be approved, signalling relief for job seekers awaiting recruitment announcements.
Officials said the October 25 session will be a significant one, potentially shaping key administrative and political developments in the state. While the agenda spans governance, infrastructure and employment issues, all eyes remain on the possible announcement regarding panchayati raj elections, a decision that could set the tone for the state’s rural political roadmap
