Rajasthan local body elections could see a major development as the Supreme Court hears a petition on Friday. The plea seeks immediate elections for urban local bodies across the state.
Congress leader Sanyam Lodha filed the petition against a Rajasthan High Court order. Earlier, the High Court directed the state to conduct elections by April 15, 2026. Lodha has challenged this timeline and demanded immediate polls.
The petition states that the Constitution mandates elections before the end of a local body’s term. Despite this rule, terms of 52 urban bodies ended over a year ago. Elections have not taken place so far.
The plea argues that the state appointed administrators instead of elected representatives. It calls this step a clear constitutional violation. The petition also claims that the High Court ignored provisions of the Rajasthan Municipal Act, 2009. Sections 7 and 11 do not allow any extension after a term ends.
Earlier, a High Court bench led by Acting Chief Justice S.P. Sharma heard multiple petitions. The court asked the government to finish delimitation by December 31, 2025. It also directed the state to hold panchayat and municipal polls together.
The state government defended its position in court. It said it was considering the “One State, One Election” model. Officials claimed the plan would save time and resources while strengthening local governance.
The Supreme Court’s hearing may now decide the next course of action.
