Seoni: The State Election Commissions of Madhya Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to support the long-delayed urban body elections in the union territory. The agreement was formalised at the 31st National Conference of State Election Commissioners, held at Pench National Park in Madhya Pradesh's Seoni district from March 1 to 4.

Key Areas of Cooperation

Under the MoU, Madhya Pradesh will provide 7,000 EVMs, essential equipment, and training to poll staff for the urban elections in J&K. The state's election commission will also help introduce innovative practices used in MP, including piloting paperless booths at selected locations.

J&K SEC Secretary Sushil Kumar thanked Madhya Pradesh's State Election Commissioner for signing the MoU, saying it will help ensure smooth conduct of urban body elections in J&K.

Municipal bodies, panchayats, and block development councils in J&K have lacked elected representatives for over a year. The term of municipalities ended in October-November 2023, while panchayats and block development councils completed their five-year terms in January 2024.

Government's Commitment and OBC Report

On Monday, March 3, J&K L-G Manoj Sinha said, "My government is committed to strengthening Panchayati Raj Institutions and urban local bodies by ensuring timely elections at all levels. This will enhance grassroots democracy, promote citizen participation in decision-making and empower local governance for more effective development," as cited by ETV Bharat.

The J&K Local Bodies Dedicated Backward Classes Commission, set up in June 2023 to conduct empirical studies on OBC representation, submitted its final recommendations to the government last week — raising hopes for timely local body polls.