SEC issues fresh schedule for collecting ballot papers

Revised dates for ballot material collection may ease tensions between state government and the election body. The State Election Commission (SEC) has issued a revised schedule for collecting ballot papers and other polling materials, signalling a possible end to the ongoing standoff with the state government over the conduct of panchayati raj institution (PRI) elections.

Under the new directives, ballot papers must be collected by November 24 for Keylong, Kaza, Kinnaur and Kullu; November 25 for Sirmaur and Una; November 26 for Shimla; November 27 for Kangra; November 28 for Mandi; November 29 for Solan and Chamba; and December 1 for Nilapsur and Hamirpur.

The earlier schedule had been released on November 10. The revised timeline appears to be an attempt to move the stalled election process forward, especially as the SEC remains firm on conducting the polls as per schedule. The state government, however, had postponed the elections on October 8 under the Disaster Management Act, citing widespread destruction caused by unprecedented rains.

The SEC has also directed officials to ensure robust security arrangements with armed police.