Likely to be held in May 2025, DDC Polls after Amarnath Yatra
Authorities cite harsh weather & roll updates for delay
Srinagar, Oct 11: With the successful completion of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections, local body polls in the Union Territory are unlikely to take place this year. Official sources have indicated that the onset of winter, particularly in the hilly and border areas, would make conducting the elections impractical.
“There have been discussions about holding local body elections the year end, but the harsh weather in remote areas during the winter months presents significant logistical challenges,” Sources told Rising Kashmir.
Initially, there were speculations that the elections might be held by the end of this year. However, officials have now tentatively pushed the timeline to May 2025. The delay is aimed at ensuring smooth polling without disruptions caused by extreme weather conditions.
District Election Officers have been instructed to finalize the panchayat electoral rolls, which is expected to take additional time. “Updating the electoral rolls is crucial, and completing this process will delay the possibility of holding elections before winter,” sources explained.
Authorities are now planning to conduct the local body elections in May next year. After that, attention will turn to the District Development Council (DDC) elections, which are also scheduled for 2025. Officials have suggested that the DDC polls may be held after the annual Amarnath Yatra, an event that requires substantial administrative resources.
Holding the elections in 2025 will allow voters, especially in far-flung areas, to participate without facing severe weather conditions. The extended timeline will also give authorities sufficient time to finalize electoral rolls and make necessary preparations for the elections across Jammu and Kashmir, sources added.
