Telangana Announces Schedule for Urban Local Body Elections
The Telangana State Election Commission (TSEC) has officially announced the election schedule for urban local bodies across the state, setting the democratic process in motion for 123 civic bodies. These include seven municipal corporations and 116 municipalities that will go to polls in a single phase on February 11, 2025.
Election Timeline and Process Details
State Election Commissioner Rani Kumudini revealed that the poll notification will be issued on Wednesday, January 28, marking the beginning of the nomination process. Candidates can file their nominations from January 28 until January 30, with scrutiny scheduled for January 31. The final date for withdrawal of nominations is February 3, after which the final candidate lists will be prepared.
Counting of votes will commence on February 13, with results expected to be declared immediately following the tabulation process. In a significant development, the commission has confirmed that these elections will be conducted using traditional ballot papers rather than electronic voting machines.
Scale of the Democratic Exercise
The urban local body elections will cover an impressive 2,996 municipal wards across Telangana, representing a substantial democratic undertaking. The election machinery has established 8,203 polling stations to accommodate voters, with 136 dedicated counting centers prepared for the vote tabulation process.
A total of 52.43 lakh registered voters are eligible to participate in these municipal elections. The voter breakdown includes 26.80 lakh female voters, 25.62 lakh male voters, and 640 voters registered under the transgender category. The State Election Commission has made a special appeal to all eligible citizens to actively participate in this democratic process by exercising their franchise.
Post-Election Procedures and MCC Enforcement
Following the declaration of results for ward members, elections for municipal chairpersons and vice chairpersons, as well as mayors and deputy mayors of municipal corporations, will be conducted on February 16. This two-tier election process ensures complete representation across all levels of urban local governance.
The model code of conduct (MCC) has come into immediate effect across Telangana following the announcement of the election schedule. Election authorities have cautioned that strict action will be taken against any violations of the conduct code. Police departments across the state have already initiated enhanced checks and surveillance measures to ensure compliance with election regulations and maintain law and order during the poll process.
Commission's Preparations and Voter Appeal
The Telangana State Election Commission has undertaken comprehensive preparations to ensure smooth conduct of the urban local body elections. From logistical arrangements for ballot papers to security measures at polling stations, the commission has developed a detailed plan to facilitate free and fair elections.
Commissioner Rani Kumudini emphasized the importance of citizen participation in strengthening urban governance through these elections. The commission has implemented various voter awareness initiatives to encourage maximum turnout and ensure that urban residents actively shape their local governance structures through the democratic process.
