Hunt Begins For New J&K State Election Commissioner

Srinagar: The Jammu & Kashmir government has commenced the appointment process for the State Election Commissioner (SEC), who is tasked with overseeing Panchayat and Urban Local Bodies in the Union Territory.
The Department of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj started engaging with the Chief Minister’s Office to initiate this process. According to the Jammu & Kashmir Panchayati Raj Act of 1989, the SEC is appointed by the Lieutenant Governor based on recommendations from a committee led by the Chief Minister. This committee also includes a senior minister chosen by the Chief Minister, the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, the Minister responsible for Panchayats, and the Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Assembly. The position of SEC has been vacant since April 27, 2025, following the retirement of B.R. Sharma upon reaching the age limit of 65. The Act stipulates that the SEC serves a term of five years or until the age of 65, whichever occurs first. Additionally, the term for the elected District Development Councils (DDCs) is set to conclude on February 24, 2026, as their five-year term commenced on February 25, 2021, when they were established by the Department of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj.