Even as the post of state election commissioner (SEC), responsible for consulting local bodies and panchayat elections, is slated to get vacant next month, Rajasthan UDH minister reiterated to conduct elections of 309 local bodies under one-state-one-election in December.
The state election commissioner (SEC) Madhukar Gupta, who is former IAS of 1985 batch, is achieved to complete his term on 17 September, 2025 after turning 65.
“At a time when state government is preparing to hold local bodies elections, the post of SEC becomes crucial. The government will have to replace Madhukar Gupta immediately if it wants to conduct polls in December,” said a senior IAS officer.
The post of SEC is generally occupied by a retired IAS officer. The term is five years or 65 years of age whatever is early. There are many retired IAS officers in contention for the post. The appointment, however, is political. It is generally offered to retired officer, who is broadly in line with the ruling party.
Looking at the situation, the elections are not likely to happen in the year 2025. Even cabinet minister for social justice and empowerment Abinash Gehlot feels that elections will be held somewhere in 2026.
“Preparations are being done to hold elections in 2025. But I think it will be held in 2026. However, chief minister and state election commission will take the final call,” he said.
OBC seats not demarcated yet
One more reason for the likely postponement of election is that the government is yet to conduct survey for identifying OBC seats. Rajasthan government on the directions of Supreme Court has constituted a commission to study the demography on seats. Despite being in existence for three months, the commission has not started survey yet.
“Elections can happen only after the commission submits its report and seats are demarcated,” said a senior officer.
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