In response to reports of an alleged auctioning process for sarpanch (village head) posts in several Panchayats, the Punjab State Election Commission on Tuesday took swift action, calling on all Deputy Commissioners-cum-District Election Officers to submit detailed reports within 24 hours. The Commission sought to address concerns over these reports, which suggest that the position of sarpanch in certain villages is being given to the highest bidder, bypassing the formal election process.
Expressing grave concern over the situation Punjab State Election Commissioner Raj Kamal Chaudhuri, acknowledged that multiple instances of these alleged auctions have surfaced across both news and social media platforms. It is reported that in these cases, the Panchayat concerned organizes an informal auction, with the individual offering the highest bid being declared “unanimously elected” as sarpanch, effectively bypassing the democratic electoral process.
Commissioner Chaudhuri emphasized that such practices, if proven, could have serious legal and ethical consequences. “It is crucial to uphold democratic traditions, and the Election Commission is committed to ensuring that the election of sarpanch positions is conducted in a free, fair, and transparent manner,” he stated. He further noted that the Commission has a responsibility to take a balanced and thorough approach to this issue, examining the implications not only within a legal framework but also in terms of preserving the integrity of local governance.
To this end, the State Election Commission has instructed all Deputy Commissioners-cum-District Election Officers to closely monitor their districts for any evidence of these alleged auction practices. They have been directed to immediately report any confirmed or suspected incidents, with a detailed account of the circumstances, to the Commission within 24 hours.
Commissioner Chaudhuri added that the reports from the districts will help the Commission determine whether these instances represent isolated events or if there is a wider trend that threatens to undermine the legitimacy of the Panchayat elections. Based on the findings, the Commission will take appropriate legal action to safeguard the democratic electoral process.
This move comes as the state prepares for its upcoming Panchayat elections, making it critical for election officials to maintain strict vigilance. The Election Commission is expected to convene further discussions on the matter once the district reports are submitted.
Chaudhuri reaffirmed the Punjab State Election Commission's commitment to ensuring that all elections are conducted in accordance with the law, with full transparency and fairness. At the same time, he warned that any attempts to subvert the election process through illegal means such as auctions will not be tolerated, and strict measures will be enforced against those found guilty. The Commission aims to protect the democratic rights of every citizen and ensure that the will of the people is respected in all Panchayat elections across Punjab, he added.
784 nominations received for sarpanch, 1446 for panches
A total of 784 nominations for the post of sarpanch and 1446 for panches have been received by the Returning Officers as on September 30, 2024, said an official spokesperson of the State Election Commission on Tuesday.
