JAMMU, SEPT 18: J&K BJP All Cells Incharge Ved Sharma on Friday accused the National Conference-led government of failing to ensure timely elections to Urban Local Bodies and Panchayati Raj Institutions, alleging that the prolonged absence of elected local representatives is affecting grassroots governance and public participation in Jammu and Kashmir.
Sharma made the remarks while reviewing the functioning of the BJP Urban Local Body Cell at the party headquarters in Trikuta Nagar, Jammu, in the presence of Cell Convenor and former Councillor Pawan Singh.
The BJP leader alleged that the continued delay in local body elections was hampering delivery of grassroots-level services and affecting accountability and the resolution of day-to-day civic and developmental issues.
The terms of elected Panchayats and BDCs expired in January 2024, while municipal bodies completed their terms in 2023 and DDCs completed their tenure in February 2026.
Sharma said the BJP would continue to raise the demand for early elections at every appropriate forum, stressing that elected and empowered local institutions were necessary for responsive governance, civic management and development at the local level.
The BJP’s allegation comes amid an ongoing debate over the reasons for the delay. The government has previously stated that the election process is linked to administrative formalities, including electoral rolls, delimitation and implementation of recommendations concerning OBC reservation.
During the organisational review, Sharma allotted districts to the co-convenors of the Urban Local Body Cell and directed them to ensure representation from every committee of each district.
He also called for stronger coordination among functionaries, wider organisational outreach and regular engagement with local communities.
Pawan Singh presented a detailed report on the activities undertaken by the Urban Local Body Cell during August and up to September 15.
He briefed the meeting about organisational initiatives carried out during the period and thanked members for their cooperation and participation, urging them to continue coordinated efforts to strengthen the cell.
Former Councillor Ajay Gupta, Anu Gupta and other members of the cell were also present.
