Yash Khajuria
Leh, Sept 09: The Election Authorities in Ladakh have officially announced that the by-election for the 21-Thangdumbur Constituency of the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC), Kargil, will be held on October 5, 2024. This decision follows the resignation of the constituency’s previous elected representative, prompting the need to fill the vacant seat.
According to an official notification issued by Yetindra M. Maralkar, IAS, the Administrative Secretary of the Election Department (File No.: M/691/2023), the election process will begin on September 11, 2024, with the opening of nominations. Interested candidates will have until September 18, 2024, to submit their nominations. Scrutiny of these nominations is scheduled for the following day, September 19, and the final date for candidates to withdraw their nominations will be September 21.
The polling will take place on October 5, 2024, from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with the vote count set for October 9. The entire election process, including any possible legal formalities or disputes, is expected to be completed by October 12.
The election will be held under the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council Act, 1997, and its accompanying election rules. The vacancy arose following the resignation of the elected representative, triggering the by-election under Rule 11 of the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Councils (Election) Rules, 1995. The district administration invoked this rule to initiate the election process, previously notified under SRO-184.
Simultaneous with the announcement, Shrikant Balasaheb Suse, IAS, the District Magistrate and Election Authority, imposed the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) in the 21-Thangdumbur constituency. The MCC ensures a free, fair, and transparent election by laying down strict guidelines for political parties and candidates.
The MCC regulates political rallies, meetings, and the use of vehicles for campaigning. Political events will now require prior approval from local authorities, including the Sub Divisional Magistrate or the Assistant Commissioner of Revenue. Vehicles used in campaigns must display the required permits prominently on four-wheelers, while two-wheeler permits must be presented upon request.
Government vehicles are strictly prohibited from being used for political purposes, and political parties are restricted from using non-biodegradable materials such as plastic for campaign activities. Moreover, the MCC bans loud campaigning near sensitive areas like schools, hospitals, and old age homes. Defacing public property with posters or other promotional materials is also prohibited.
To prevent the misuse of government resources, ministers and sitting councilors are barred from announcing new projects, schemes, or grants. The MCC also forbids the distribution of cash, liquor, or consumer goods to influence voters. Licensed liquor shops in the constituency are required to submit daily sales reports, with unlicensed shops facing severe penalties for non-compliance.
The Election Authority has made it clear that any violation of the Model Code of Conduct will be met with legal action. Special provisions have also been introduced to ensure that government employees remain politically neutral during the election period. These employees are strictly forbidden from engaging in political activities or influencing the electoral process.
