The Karnataka High Court has issued a notice to the state government in response to a petition filed by the Karnataka State Election Commission seeking immediate action to publish the final reservation list for seats in the state’s gram panchayats. The petition highlights that 5,950 gram panchayats are slated for elections before January 2026, and without a reservation notification under Section 5(5) of the Karnataka Gram Swaraj and Panchayat Raj Act, 1993, election notifications cannot be issued.
The division bench, comprising Vibhu Bakhru C.J. and C M Poonacha J., stressed the gravity of the matter, noting that without the reservation notification the election machinery and the commission cannot proceed with electoral rolls or polling schedules. The bench directed the state to submit objections or its stance within two weeks.
The government counsel sought a week’s time, stating that instructions were being gathered. The court responded by insisting on timely action, pointing out that delays could lead to constitutional and administrative consequences—such as inability to hold elections and potential appointment of administrators in panchayats whose terms expire.
The case has been listed for further hearing on December 11.
This development emphasises the importance of timely reservations, orderly preparation for rural elections and the role of constitutional and statutory deadlines in local-self-government processes.
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