HP Cabinet Approves Key Amendments to Urban Local Bodies Election Rules

Shimla, July 29: The Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has approved amendments to the Himachal Pradesh Municipal Election Rules, 2015, introducing several electoral reforms. Once elections are notified, no changes will be permitted in the voter lists, including addition or deletion of names. The power to notify the election schedule has now been shifted from Deputy Commissioners to the State Election Commission. Also, nominated members will now be allowed to take the constitutional oath alongside elected representatives.

The Cabinet also approved the reorganization of Nagchala and Nerchowk planning areas in Mandi, upgraded Jawali Nagar Panchayat in Kangra to a Municipal Council, and reclassified Sunni Municipal Council in Shimla as a Nagar Panchayat.

In another major relief, vehicle owners scrapping pre-BS, BS-I, and BS-II vehicles through registered scrapping facilities will now receive 50% rebate in motor vehicle tax.

Meanwhile, to ensure accurate assessment of disaster damage, the government will send joint teams comprising tehsildars, junior engineers, and patwaris for on-ground verification. Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi said that the state will offer Rs 7 lakh as housing relief, far above the Centre’s existing cap of Rs 1.3 lakh, under the new disaster relief package for 2023–24, which also includes enhanced crop compensation.