Rajasthan Government Clarifies Stance on Urban Local Body Election Norms
The Rajasthan state government has officially clarified that there are no immediate plans to amend the eligibility criteria for candidates contesting elections in urban local bodies. This clarification comes in response to a specific query raised by Ratangarh MLA Poosaram Godara regarding potential changes to norms, including the controversial two-child policy.
Educational Qualifications Remain Unchanged
In a detailed written reply, the Department of Local Bodies (DLB) explicitly stated that Section 21 of the Rajasthan Municipal Act, 2009, does not mandate any specific educational qualification for individuals seeking to contest municipal elections. The department further emphasized that no proposal to amend rules concerning educational qualifications is currently under active consideration by the government.
Two-Child Norm Under Review But Not Approved
Regarding the two-child norm, which is outlined under Section 24 of the same Act, the government revealed that a proposal to amend these provisions has been forwarded to the Law and Legal Affairs Department and is currently undergoing review. However, officials stressed that this proposal has neither been presented before the state Cabinet nor received any formal approval at this stage.
DLB Secretary Ravi Jain provided additional context, stating, "The discussion on removing the two-child policy has been ongoing for some time. This reply refers to future possibilities. No bill was passed by the Cabinet yet, and no new rule was implemented. At present, it is only expected and under process."
Mixed Reactions from Political Figures
The government's clarification has sparked diverse reactions across the political spectrum. While some candidates with more than two children view the potential amendment as a possible relief, several former municipal representatives have expressed strong criticism of the government's current position.
Former councillor Dashrath Singh Shekhawat voiced his disapproval, saying, "Instead of moving forward in the 21st century, the government appears to be returning to ancient thinking. Public representatives with fewer children could set an example for society, but this decision goes in the opposite direction." He further argued that allowing individuals without formal education to run civic bodies represents a "completely wrong decision" that could potentially harm municipal governance.
In contrast, former Jaipur Municipal Corporation mayor Jyoti Khandelwal offered a different perspective: "If educational qualifications are not made mandatory, more people will be able to contest elections. Earlier, having more than two children was common, especially in rural areas. Removing this rule will allow many eligible candidates to contest."
Former leader of opposition in the JMC, Giriraj Khandelwal, described the government's reply as "deeply concerning" and suggested that the lack of clear direction reflects "the government's absence of direction and political will," potentially weakening the operational efficiency of urban local bodies.
The ongoing debate highlights the complex balance between inclusive representation and governance standards in Rajasthan's urban political landscape, with the government maintaining that any changes remain procedural rather than imminent.
