Allahabad High Court Orders UP Panchayat Polls Within Three Months

The Allahabad High Court directed Uttar Pradesh and its State Election Commission to complete Panchayat elections within three months under the existing reservation arrangement, including 27 percent OBC reservation.

Background and dispute

The terms of elected local bodies had expired while a dedicated commission continued empirical work on backward-class representation. Petitioners challenged the prolonged delay in constituting new Panchayats.

Legal issue and court’s approach

Justices Ajit Kumar and Garima Prashad said the commission’s inquiry cannot indefinitely postpone elections. The Court preserved existing reservation arrangements for this exercise and directed logistical support, while allowing the commission to continue its work.

Order and practical consequence

The State and Election Commission must begin preparations and complete the polls within the specified period.