The State Election Commission (SEC), Himachal Pradesh, has announced the election schedule for 51 urban local bodies, exercising its powers under Article 243ZA of the Constitution and relevant municipal laws. The programme covers Nagar Nigams, Nagar Parishads, and Nagar Panchayats for which reservation rosters have been received from the state government.
A total of 3,60,859 voters are registered across these bodies, including 1,80,963 men, 1,79,882 women, and 14 others. As many as 1,808 voters aged 18 will cast their vote for the first time. The voter lists were published in October 2025, finalized in November, and updated through a special revision in April 2026 to ensure wider inclusion.
The Commission has set up 589 polling stations and directed officials to create auxiliary booths in high-density areas. Separate arrangements for male and female voters will be made where required, with a focus on deploying women staff at महिला polling stations.
Voters will receive polling details via SMS if their mobile numbers are registered. They can also verify their names through the “Voter Sarthi” app. The SEC clarified that only those listed in its electoral rolls are eligible to vote in local body elections, and EPIC cards serve only as identity proof.
Spending limits for candidates have been fixed at ₹1 lakh for Nagar Nigams, ₹75,000 for Nagar Parishads, and ₹50,000 for Nagar Panchayats. Candidates must submit expenditure details within 30 days of the results using the Commission’s reporting system.
With the announcement, the Model Code of Conduct has come into force. The SEC has warned against misuse of official machinery and appeals based on caste, religion, or region. A liquor ban will be imposed 48 hours before polling and on counting day, and paid leave will be granted to employees on polling day.
Polling, if required, will be held on May 17 from 7 am to 3 pm. Counting for Nagar Panchayats and Parishads will take place the same day, while Nagar Nigam votes will be counted on May 31.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
