Punjab State Election Commission Sets Key Dates for Municipal Elections
The Punjab State Election Commission has officially announced that the final electoral rolls for the forthcoming general and by-elections to municipal corporations, municipal councils, and nagar panchayats across Punjab will be published on May 5, 2026. This crucial announcement marks a significant step in the preparation for the civic body elections, although the specific polling dates are yet to be declared by the authorities.
Comprehensive Revision Exercise for Urban Local Bodies
According to the detailed notification issued under Rule 3 of the Punjab Municipal Election Rules, 1994, the revision exercise will comprehensively cover elections to eight municipal corporations and 104 municipal councils throughout the state. The municipal corporations included in this process are Barnala, Bathinda, Abohar, Batala, Hoshiarpur, Kapurthala, Mohali, and Pathankot.
In Mohali district specifically, election officials have meticulously identified 624 polling booths across major urban areas to facilitate the electoral process. These locations include Mohali, Banur, Zirakpur, Derabassi, Kurali, Nayagaon, and Kharar, ensuring widespread accessibility for voters in the region.
Detailed Timeline for Electoral Roll Preparation
The Commission has established a clear and structured timeline for the electoral roll revision process:
- Draft Electoral Rolls Publication: April 15, 2026
- Claims and Objections Window: April 17 to April 23, 2026
- Special Assistance Campaign: April 20 and April 21, 2026
- Disposal of Claims and Objections: By April 30, 2026
- Final Electoral Rolls Publication: May 5, 2026
During the special campaign on April 20 and 21, election officials will be readily available to assist citizens in making necessary corrections, additions, or deletions to the electoral rolls. This initiative aims to ensure wider public participation and accuracy in the voter lists.
Ensuring Accuracy and Transparency in the Electoral Process
Officials have emphasized that the revision process is being conducted using the latest delimitation data provided by the Department of Local Government. This approach is designed to guarantee the utmost accuracy of voter lists and minimize discrepancies during the actual elections.
Citizens are strongly urged to carefully review their details once the draft rolls are released and submit any required corrections within the stipulated timeframe. All claims and objections received during the specified period will undergo thorough examination and verification before being disposed of by April 30, 2026.
The State Election Commission has reaffirmed its commitment to strict adherence to the announced schedule to maintain transparency and ensure an error-free electoral process ahead of the Punjab civic polls. This systematic approach underscores the Commission's dedication to upholding democratic principles and facilitating smooth municipal elections across the state.
