Ambala Cantonment Board elections delayed again, aspirants in limbo

The elections for the Cantonment Board Ambala seem unlikely anytime soon, as the term of the three-member board managing its affairs has been extended by another year. This marks yet another delay in holding elections, keeping former elected members and aspirants waiting.

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Initially, in 2020, the Ministry of Defence had extended the tenure of the elected house twice for six months each. However, in February 2021, the board was dissolved and replaced with a three-member team comprising the station commander of the Army, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the cantonment board and a nominated civilian member. Since then, the board's term has been extended annually, with the latest extension set to begin on February 11.

The delay has frustrated former elected members, who are demanding early elections. Many were hopeful that elections would be conducted soon after the Lok Sabha polls, but the latest extension has left them disappointed.

Former elected member Surinder Tiwari expressed his frustration, stating, “We have been waiting for elections for the past four years, but there has been no positive sign. Aspirants are uncertain about their preparations, as the government continues extending the term of the three-member board instead of holding elections. Earlier, we were told that the New Cantonment Bill would be tabled in Parliament before elections, but nothing has happened.”

Another former elected member, Virender Gandhi, emphasised the need for elected representatives, saying, “A lot of time has passed without elected members in the board. The government must understand that elected representatives know their areas well and can play a crucial role in development work. No major projects have been announced for the cantonment and development has been limited to select areas. Elections should be conducted at the earliest.”

Defending the board’s work, nominated board member Ajay Baweja said, “The issues faced by residents and board employees are regularly discussed in meetings and all efforts are being made to resolve them. The elections of other cantonment boards are also pending and the final decision rests with the government. We are managing the board as per the guidelines and are also taking up issues related to funds and development with the state government.”

Meanwhile, Rahul Anand Sharma, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Cantonment Board Ambala, clarified that no official directions regarding elections have been issued yet. “A proposal regarding the excision of cantonments was under consideration, which led to the deferment of elections. The tenure of the varied board has been extended and elections may not take place in the near future,” he said.