Tue Mar 10 02:38:09 UTC 2026: # Rajasthan Scraps Two-Child Norm for Panchayati Raj Elections

The Story:
The Rajasthan Assembly passed The Rajasthan Panchayati Raj (Amendment) Bill, 2026 on Monday, March 10, 2026, eliminating the provision that disqualified candidates with more than two children from contesting Panchayati Raj elections. This reverses a policy implemented in 1995 under former Chief Minister Bhairon Singh Shekhawat. The move sparked debate, with the opposition Congress questioning the rationale and timing, especially given the pending panchayat elections.

Key Points:

  • The Bill amends Section 19 of the Rajasthan Panchayati Raj Act, 1994.
  • The original provision, introduced in 1995, aimed to control population growth.
  • Panchayati Raj Minister Madan Dilawar stated that the fertility rate has dropped from 3.6 (1991-94) to 2.0, making the restriction “irrelevant.”
  • Congress MLA Govind Singh Dotasra criticized the government for lacking a “clear vision” and acting under pressure.
  • The Congress party also raised concerns about the delay in holding panchayat elections, mandated by the Rajasthan High Court to be held by April 15.

Key Takeaways:

  • Rajasthan’s government argues that the two-child norm is no longer necessary due to declining fertility rates.
  • The opposition Congress party views the change as lacking strategic foresight and potentially driven by political pressure.
  • This decision will allow individuals previously disqualified due to having more than two children to participate in local elections.
  • The timing of the bill is contentious, given the upcoming panchayat elections.
  • The removal of this restriction could significantly alter the pool of candidates eligible to contest local elections.

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