3,770 file papers for sarpanch in 860 panchayats of Amritsar district

Even as it was the day for scrutiny of nominations filed by candidates for panchayat elections, the election offices did not put up the lists till late in evening. As per the election schedule announced earlier, the administration had allowed candidates to file their nominations till October 4.

The schedule further stated that the scrutiny of papers would be done on October 5 and candidates who want to withdraw from the election process can do so on October 6 and October 7. The election is to be held on October 15.

Sources in the district administration stated that with a large number of applicants filing their nominations, the scrutiny of papers requires more time. The lists, if ready, would be available by morning, they said.

For 860 panchayats in the district, a total of 3,770 aspirants for the post of sarpanch and 14,860 aspirants for the post of panchayat members have submitted their nominations with the district administration.

With candidates alleging irregularities during the nomination process — Opposition parties alleged harassment of their candidates who were not being issued no objection certificates (NOCs) — there are now apprehensions that the candidature of Opposition candidates might be rejected on one pretext or the other.

Meanwhile, the Election Commission has appointed Harpreet Singh, IAS, as special observer for panchayat elections in the district. Additional Deputy Commissioner (Development) Paramjit Kaur said that special election observer Harpreet Singh Sudan would remain in the district till October 7.

She said that in case of any complaints, the residents can contact him at the PWD Resthouse near Rialto Chowk from 1 pm to 3 pm.