Gehlot Appeals to President for Action on ULB and Panchayat Election Delays, Calling It a Constitutional Crisis
Synopsis
Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot demands immediate action from President Murmu over the alarming delays in Urban Local Bodies and Panchayati Raj elections, deeming it a constitutional crisis. His accusations against the BJP government raise critical questions about the integrity of democracy in the state.
Key Takeaways
Ashok Gehlot has called for Presidential intervention over election delays.
The situation has been described as a constitutional crisis by Gehlot.
Timely elections are seen as a constitutional mandate .
Legal directives from the Supreme Court remain unfulfilled.
Gehlot emphasizes the importance of grassroots democracy .
Jaipur, April 14 (NationPress) Ashok Gehlot, the former Chief Minister of Rajasthan, has urged President Murmu and the Governor to step in regarding the postponement of elections for Urban Local Bodies (ULB) and Panchayati Raj institutions in the state.
During a press conference in Jaipur, Gehlot accused the BJP-led state administration of intentionally delaying these elections, labeling the situation as a 'constitutional crisis.'
He emphasized that conducting timely elections to Panchayati Raj institutions and ULBs is a constitutional obligation inspired by the vision of B.R. Ambedkar. “What moral authority does the government possess to stay in power if it fails to hold elections on time?” he questioned.
Furthermore, he criticized the BJP for commemorating Ambedkar Jayanti while seemingly disregarding the constitutional values he championed. Gehlot asserted that bodies like Panchayats, municipalities, and cooperative societies are essential to grassroots democracy.
He highlighted that not only are Panchayat and municipal elections overdue, but even elections for cooperative societies have yet to occur.
“If they genuinely upheld Ambedkar’s principles, these elections would have been conducted promptly,” he remarked.
Gehlot expressed concerns about the election delays, noting that both the Supreme Court and the High Court had mandated that these elections be held within a specified timeframe, ideally by April.
“Despite clear judicial directives, the elections remain unheld. This situation raises significant questions and indicates a collapse of constitutional order,” he stated.
He also accused the ruling powers of lacking true commitment to constitutional ideals. Referencing Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, he remarked that the continual plea to 'Save the Constitution' signifies rising worries regarding the erosion of democratic institutions.
“There is a stark contrast between the rhetoric and actual actions,” he added.
Pointing out the irony, Gehlot mentioned that while leaders from various political parties celebrate Ambedkar’s birth anniversary on April 14, their actions frequently contradict his principles.
He warned that the erosion of democratic institutions and the postponement of elections jeopardize the core of India’s constitutional framework.
Point of View
Particularly regarding democratic processes at the grassroots level. The implications of these delays could resonate widely, affecting public trust in governmental institutions.
NationPress
6 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Ashok Gehlot request from the President?
Ashok Gehlot requested President Murmu to intervene in the delay of elections for Urban Local Bodies and Panchayati Raj institutions in Rajasthan.
What does Gehlot consider the situation to be?
Gehlot considers the ongoing delay in elections to be a 'constitutional crisis'.
What is the significance of B.R. Ambedkar in this context?
B.R. Ambedkar is referenced as a key figure whose vision underscores the importance of timely elections for grassroots democracy.
What legal directives have been issued regarding these elections?
Both the Supreme Court and the High Court have instructed that these elections should be conducted within a specified timeframe, ideally by April.
How does Gehlot view the current government's actions?
Gehlot criticizes the current government for celebrating Ambedkar Jayanti while allegedly neglecting the constitutional principles he stood for.
