Various organisations staged a protest outside the Election Department in Puducherry, demanding that the delayed local body polls be held without further postponement. The demonstration intensifies pressure on the AINRC‑BJP government to obey court orders.

Key Takeaways

  • Over two decades without local body elections in Puducherry
  • AINRC‑BJP government accused of ignoring court directive
  • OBC reservation report submitted but elections still on hold

On Tuesday, representatives of several civil‑society groups gathered in front of the Puducherry Election Department to stage a demonstration demanding the immediate conduct of municipal and panchayat elections. Protesters shouted slogans condemning the AINRC‑BJP coalition for failing to act on a judicial order that mandated the polls.

Historical Context

In the past 58 years, Puducherry has conducted local body elections only once—in 2006. When the State Election Commission prepared for a 2021 poll, the Madras High Court stayed the process, directing that seats be reserved for OBCs before any election could proceed. This legal tussle delayed the democratic timetable further.

Commission Appointment and Report

Following the court’s direction, the Union Territory government appointed former Madras High Court judge K. K. Sasidharan as the sole chairperson of a one‑person commission on 17 December 2021. The commission’s mandate was to draft a reservation framework for OBC candidates and to recommend a feasible election schedule. In March, the commission submitted its findings at a function held in the historic Mairie Building.

Political Voices and Future Outlook

Former Member of Parliament and president of the Puducherry Manila Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam, M. Ramadass, addressed the crowd, stating, “The people deserve timely elections. Ignoring a court order undermines the very foundations of our democracy.” He urged the government to act swiftly and announce the poll dates.

Political analysts warn that continued procrastination could fuel larger civic unrest and erode confidence in the Union Territory’s governance. International observers often view prolonged delays in local elections as a breach of democratic norms, potentially tarnishing Puducherry’s reputation on the global stage.