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Rajasthan Government Accused of Delaying Local Elections, Violating Constitution

Jaipur, October 26, 2025 – Congress leader and former Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Ashok Gehlot, has strongly criticized the current BJP government for allegedly flouting Supreme Court orders and violating the Constitution by delaying elections for Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRI) and Urban Local Bodies (ULB).

In a video statement released today, Gehlot claimed the BJP is intentionally stalling these elections due to fears of electoral defeat. He highlighted that the terms of both ULBs and PRIs have expired, yet the government has appointed administrators instead of holding elections, a move he deems a “direct violation of the Constitution.”

Gehlot cited Articles 243-E and 243-U of the Constitution, which mandate elections every five years, and referenced Supreme Court rulings upholding the same. He argued that the delay undermines the purpose of these institutions in fostering grassroots leadership and is inherently “anti-democratic.”

The last ULB elections were held in November 2019, and the last PRI elections took place in January 2020. The Congress leader’s statement raises concerns about local governance and the adherence to constitutional mandates within Rajasthan. The BJP government has yet to respond to these allegations.

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