Governor Kavinder Gupta on Thursday received the report on the General Elections to Local Bodies in Himachal Pradesh-2026 from State Election Commissioner Anil Khachi at Lok Bhavan.
The report provides a detailed overview of the Panchayati Raj Institutions and Urban Local Bodies elections held in May 2026, covering the planning, preparations, administrative arrangements, legal proceedings and key milestones that ensured the successful completion of the electoral exercise.
Appreciating the State Election Commission for conducting free, fair, peaceful and transparent elections, the Governor said the report would serve as an important reference document for policymakers, researchers, administrators and citizens. He highlighted the role of strong and accountable institutions in strengthening democracy at the grassroots level.
The Governor congratulated the newly elected representatives and expressed hope that they would work with dedication towards inclusive development and public welfare.
The report highlights major steps taken by the Commission, including coordination with government departments, delimitation of local bodies, revision of electoral rolls and resolution of legal matters before the High Court of Himachal Pradesh and the Supreme Court.
Following delimitation, Himachal Pradesh saw an expansion in its local governance structure. The number of Gram Panchayats increased from 3,615 in 2021 to 3,758 in 2026, Panchayat Samitis from 81 to 92, Nagar Panchayats from 27 to 39 and Municipal Corporations from five to eight.
The report also noted strong voter participation, with the electorate rising to 54.55 lakh in 2026. Panchayat elections recorded around 80 per cent turnout, while Urban Local Body elections witnessed 70.14 per cent polling.
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