Shimla, Feb 28: In a bid to curb corruption within local governance, the Panchayati Raj Department of Himachal Pradesh has sought details of panchayat representatives facing vigilance or corruption charges, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Anirudh Singh stated on Friday.
Singh emphasized the government's intention to prevent individuals with pending corruption cases from contesting elections. “To check corruption, we wish to ensure that those facing such charges are not allowed to participate in elections,” he said.
According to official records, between 2018 and 2025, corruption complaints were filed against 358 panchayat representatives, with investigations still ongoing in 237 cases. Additionally, the department has received 1,353 complaints related to corruption since 2018, of which 611 have been resolved.
The elections for Panchayati Raj institutions in the state are scheduled for December.
Speaking about the formation of new panchayats, Singh revealed that approximately 700-750 proposals have been submitted. These proposals are under review, considering the financial implications, as the establishment of a new panchayat incurs an expenditure of ₹6-7 crore.
This move is seen as part of the state government's broader efforts to enhance transparency and accountability in grassroots governance.
Singh emphasized the government's intention to prevent individuals with pending corruption cases from contesting elections. “To check corruption, we wish to ensure that those facing such charges are not allowed to participate in elections,” he said.
According to official records, between 2018 and 2025, corruption complaints were filed against 358 panchayat representatives, with investigations still ongoing in 237 cases. Additionally, the department has received 1,353 complaints related to corruption since 2018, of which 611 have been resolved.
The elections for Panchayati Raj institutions in the state are scheduled for December.
Speaking about the formation of new panchayats, Singh revealed that approximately 700-750 proposals have been submitted. These proposals are under review, considering the financial implications, as the establishment of a new panchayat incurs an expenditure of ₹6-7 crore.
This move is seen as part of the state government's broader efforts to enhance transparency and accountability in grassroots governance.
