Is Telangana Ready for the First Phase of Panchayat Elections?
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Synopsis
As Telangana gears up for its gram panchayat elections, significant preparations have been made to ensure a smooth voting process. Over 56 lakh voters will participate, with stringent security measures and real-time monitoring in place. This election marks a vital democratic exercise for rural governance.
Key Takeaways
- 56 lakh voters eligible for voting.
- 37,562 polling stations established.
- Over 50,000 police personnel deployed for security.
- Real-time webcasting in over 3,000 panchayats.
- Election to occur in three phases.
Hyderabad, Dec 10 (NationPress) The preparations are complete for the initial phase of gram panchayat elections in Telangana set for Thursday. Station Election Commissioner Rani Kumudini announced that every measure has been implemented to ensure the elections are peaceful, free, and fair.
Over 56 lakh voters are eligible to participate in the voting for 3,800 gram panchayats and 37,440 wards across 189 mandals. Voting will commence at 7 a.m., with the vote counting process to begin immediately after.
A total of 56,19,430 candidates are eligible to vote. The election commission has established 37,562 polling stations.
There are 12,960 candidates competing for the position of sarpanches and 65,455 candidates vying for ward member roles.
For 395 gram panchayats, sarpanches have been elected by consensus.
A holiday has been declared in regions where elections are taking place to facilitate voter participation.
More than one lakh polling personnel will be on duty, with the State Election Commission having trained them adequately. Polling officers have collected necessary election materials from reception centers.
In over 3,000 gram panchayats, direct webcasting will be implemented to allow real-time monitoring of the voting process.
To ensure smooth elections, more than 50,000 police personnel, including Civil Police, Armed Reserve, and Telangana State Special Police (TGSP), along with staff from other departments like Forest and Excise, have been mobilized.
Director General of Police B. Shivadhar Reddy mentioned that since counting occurs right after polling, extensive security measures have been arranged at all counting centers.
During the election process so far, enforcement teams have confiscated cash, liquor, drugs, and other inducements worth ₹8.20 crore.
A total of 229 FIRs have been registered for violating the Model Code of Conduct. Police have executed 1,053 Non-Bailable Warrants, both recalled and newly issued, and all licensed firearms under election security regulations have been deposited as instructed.
To enhance monitoring, 54 inter-state border check posts have been established along Telangana's borders with Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh.
These posts operate 24/7 to prevent the illegal transportation of cash, liquor, weapons, and other materials, as stated by the DGP.
Additionally, 537 flying squad teams and 155 static surveillance teams are actively engaged across the state to ensure strict adherence to election protocols and to foster a peaceful polling atmosphere.
The Prohibition and Excise Department has mandated the closure of liquor establishments in mandals conducting elections. All wine shops, bars, and restaurants serving liquor must remain shut until the counting is complete.
According to a notification from the State Election Commission last month, the panchayat elections will occur in three phases on December 11, 14, and 17 for 12,728 sarpanch posts and 1,12,242 ward posts.
A total of 1.66 crore votes from rural areas are eligible for these elections.
Point of View
It is crucial to uphold the values of democracy. With thorough preparations and extensive security measures, the elections symbolize a significant exercise in rural governance. The nation stands firmly behind the principle of free and fair elections, ensuring every voice is heard.
NationPress
11/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the date for the first phase of the elections in Telangana?
The first phase of the gram panchayat elections in Telangana will be held on December 11.
How many voters are eligible in this election?
Over 56 lakh voters are eligible to cast their votes in the elections.
What security measures are in place for the elections?
More than 50,000 police personnel have been deployed along with numerous surveillance teams to ensure a safe voting environment.
How many polling stations have been established?
The election commission has set up 37,562 polling stations for the elections.
When will the counting of votes occur?
The counting of votes will begin immediately after the polling closes.
