Supreme Court Clears Path for Rajasthan Panchayat Elections, Dismisses Delimitation Challenge

Jaipur, Rajasthan: The legal uncertainty surrounding the Panchayati Raj elections in Rajasthan has been resolved. The Supreme Court has dismissed a petition challenging the state’s delimitation notifications, allowing the elections to proceed. With this ruling, the state can now hold Panchayat elections by 15 April 2026.

High Court Decision Upheld
The bench, headed by Chief Justice Suryakant and comprising Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M. Pancholi, rejected the Special Leave Petition filed by Jai Singh against the Jaipur High Court’s decision. The High Court had earlier dismissed Civil Writ Petition No. 792/2026, validating the state government’s delimitation notifications.

Petitioner’s Arguments
The petitioner had contended that the state government did not comply with mandatory legal provisions while issuing the delimitation notifications. He argued that objections regarding the distance to headquarters and inconvenience to local residents were not properly addressed. The petitioner also challenged the decision to transfer the Gram Panchayat headquarters, demanding its annulment.

Origins of the Dispute
The dispute arose from the reorganization of Sillar Puri Gram Panchayat, which initially included the revenue villages Sillar Puri (population 1,254), Khani Dangiya (364), and Raipur Jatan (1,700). A ministerial subcommittee, after consulting the public and elected representatives, recommended Raipur Jatan, the largest village, as the new headquarters. The state government approved the recommendation and issued Revised Notification No. 878 on 28 December, officially declaring Raipur Jatan as the Gram Panchayat headquarters.

Impact on Election Schedule
With the Supreme Court’s latest ruling, there are no legal hurdles remaining, clearing the way for the Panchayat elections. Administrative authorities are expected to finalize the election schedule and complete the process within the stipulated timeframe. The decision is seen as a significant step in advancing local democracy in Rajasthan.