When Will the Gram Panchayat Elections in Telangana Be Held?
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Synopsis
Get ready, Telangana! The Gram Panchayat elections are arriving in December, with key dates and significant reservations for Backward Classes. With millions eligible to vote, this election could reshape rural governance. Stay informed about the process and the implications of these elections.
Key Takeaways
- Gram Panchayat elections in Telangana will occur in three phases.
- The election dates are December 11, 14, and 17.
- Over 1.66 crore voters are eligible to participate.
- A total of 12,728 posts are available for election.
- There is a 17.08% reservation for Backward Classes.
Hyderabad, Nov 25 (NationPress) The upcoming Gram Panchayat elections in Telangana are set to take place over three phases next month.
According to a notification released by the Telangana State Election Commission on Tuesday, voting is scheduled for December 11, 14, and 17 for a total of 12,728 sarpanch posts and 112,242 wards.
State Election Commissioner I. Rani Kumudini stated that the model code of conduct is now in effect statewide.
Polling hours are established from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., with vote counting commencing the same day at 2 p.m.
Approximately 1.66 crore individuals in rural areas are eligible to participate in these elections.
The SEC reminded that the election notification was initially issued on September 29 but was subsequently put on hold.
Nominations for the initial phase will open on November 27, with December 3 as the final date for withdrawal of candidacies.
For the second phase, nominations will be accepted starting November 30, with the last withdrawal date set for December 6. Lastly, nominations for the final phase can be submitted from December 3, with December 9 being the last day for withdrawals.
The SEC has allocated a 17.08% reservation in Gram Panchayats for Backward Classes (BCs). Of the 12,735 Gram Panchayats, 2,176 are reserved for BCs.
Among the 31 districts participating in the elections, Siddipet boasts the highest BC reservation at 26.772%, while Bhadradri Kothagudem district has no reserved Gram Panchayats for BCs.
The Telangana Cabinet decided on November 17 to proceed solely with the Gram Panchayat elections in December due to the impending lapse of the Rs 3000 crore grant from the Centre by March 31, 2026.
As the term of the 15th Finance Commission concludes on March 31, 2026, the Rs 3000 crore grant for Gram Panchayats will expire if elections are not conducted by the deadline.
Decisions regarding the elections for Mandal Parishad Territorial Constituencies (MPTCs), Zilla Parishad Territorial Constituencies (ZPTCs), and municipal corporations will be made following the High Court’s final ruling on the 42% reservation for BCs.
According to the High Court's directive, local body elections must adhere to a 50% cap on total reservations for all groups.
The government previously issued an order to provide 42% reservation for BCs, which initiated the election process in September. However, following the High Court’s annulment of the government order, the election process was halted.
The government will determine the timeline for MPTC and ZPTC elections after the court delivers its final orders on the 42% reservation.
Point of View
The Gram Panchayat elections in Telangana represent a pivotal moment for grassroots democracy. With a significant share of the electorate eligible to vote, these elections could lead to critical changes in local governance. The decision to move forward with these polls highlights the government's commitment to ensuring that local bodies function effectively, especially in light of the impending financial grant deadlines.
NationPress
25/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the dates for the Gram Panchayat elections in Telangana?
The elections will be held on December 11, 14, and 17.
How many posts are up for election?
A total of 12,728 sarpanch posts and 112,242 wards are up for election.
What is the voter eligibility for these elections?
Approximately 1.66 crore voters in rural areas are eligible to participate.
What is the reservation percentage for Backward Classes?
There is a 17.08% reservation in Gram Panchayats for Backward Classes.
When do nominations open for the elections?
Nominations for the first phase open on November 27.
