Punjab Gears Up for Municipal Elections: State Election Commission Releases Electoral Roll Revision Schedule

Chandigarh, November 13, 2024:

The Punjab State Election Commission has announced the comprehensive schedule for updating and revising the electoral rolls ahead of the upcoming municipal elections across Punjab. With the official notification issued under letter No. SEC/ME/SAM/2024/8227-49 dated November 12, 2024, the Punjab Election Commissioner Raj Kamal Chaudhuri disclosed that the preparations are well underway for the much-anticipated general elections for five major municipal corporations—Amritsar, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Patiala, and Phagwara—alongside 43 municipal councils and nagar panchayats. Additionally, 52 bye-elections are set to be held across various municipalities in the state.

As part of this effort to uphold electoral integrity and ensure updated voter records, the initial publication of draft electoral rolls by Electoral Registration Officers is scheduled for November 14, 2024. The period for public claims and objections will open shortly thereafter, running from November 18 to November 25, 2024. This process allows residents to verify their inclusion and details on the voter lists, correct any inaccuracies, or add missing names, ensuring everyone eligible has the opportunity to vote.

The Punjab Election Commission has directed all Deputy Commissioners, acting as District Election Officers, to publicize the updated draft voter lists through accessible postings in the offices of Electoral Registration Officers and within the respective municipal councils. These efforts seek to maximize public awareness and encourage eligible voters to participate in the electoral roll revision process, particularly first-time voters who have recently turned 18 and those who may have changed their address within municipal limits.

To make this process user-friendly, the Commission has outlined how eligible residents can raise claims and objections. Individuals can file their applications using the following forms available under Rule 14 of the Punjab Municipal Election Rules, 1994: Form 7 for inclusion of names, Form 8 for objections against any name already listed, and Form 9 for modifications to specific details in an entry. All forms are readily accessible for download on the Punjab State Election Commission’s website at [sec.punjab.gov.in](https://sec.punjab.gov.in).

The Commission has established November 1, 2024, as the qualifying date, which means anyone who is 18 years old as of this date and ordinarily resides within the municipality can apply for registration as a voter. Special campaigns will also be held on November 20 and 21, 2024, allowing citizens to conveniently submit their claims and objections at their local municipal offices.

This initiative reflects the State Election Commission’s commitment to a transparent, inclusive, and democratic election process. The final, updated voter lists will be published on December 7, 2024, and will serve as the foundation for eligible voters to participate in these critical local elections. By inviting public involvement in the electoral roll revision, the Commission ensures that every voice counts and that the municipal elections represent the will of the people.

The State Election Commission urges all eligible and interested citizens to verify their registration in the voter lists for their respective municipalities. Timely registration is crucial for those who wish to exercise their right to vote in these upcoming municipal elections, ensuring they have a voice in shaping the future of their communities.

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