Himachal Pradesh Panchayat Elections See Massive Women Participation, Voter Turnout Reaches 80%

Himachal Pradesh witnessed a remarkable display of grassroots democracy on Thursday as nearly 80 per cent voting was recorded in the second phase of the Panchayati Raj Institution (PRI) elections across 1,276 gram panchayats. The impressive turnout not only surpassed the 78.9 per cent polling seen in the first phase but also exceeded the 76 per cent turnout recorded during the second phase of the 2021 panchayat elections.

One of the biggest highlights of this election phase was the overwhelming participation of women voters. Continuing a trend seen during the first phase, women outnumbered male voters in most districts, reflecting the growing influence and political awareness of women in rural Himachal Pradesh.

According to data shared by the State Election Commission, women voters recorded around 83 per cent turnout, significantly higher than the approximately 76 per cent turnout among men. Women participation remained higher in nine out of the state’s 12 districts, underlining the increasing role of women in strengthening local self-governance.

Among all districts, Kullu once again registered the highest voter turnout at 86 per cent. The district had also topped polling percentages during the first phase with 84.57 per cent voting. Sirmaur followed closely with an impressive 85 per cent turnout, slightly higher than the first phase figures. Meanwhile, the tribal district of Lahaul and Spiti recorded the lowest turnout at 69 per cent.

Election officials confirmed that polling remained peaceful across the state, with no major untoward incidents reported from any polling station. Since early morning, long queues of enthusiastic voters were seen outside polling booths in several rural areas.

The elections also witnessed inspiring participation from elderly voters and first-time electors. In Paonta Sahib, a 105-year-old voter reached the polling station with the support of his family members to cast his vote. His determination drew appreciation from locals and election officials alike.

Similarly, 110-year-old Surtu Devi from Brasli gram panchayat in Rohru also exercised her franchise, becoming a symbol of democratic spirit and civic responsibility.

Young and first-time voters also showed excitement while participating in the electoral process. Many expressed hope that the newly elected village representatives would focus on improving roads, water supply, healthcare facilities, and other basic infrastructure in rural areas.

The final phase of the Panchayati Raj elections in Himachal Pradesh is scheduled to take place on May 30 across 1,189 gram panchayats. While results for panchayat office-bearers are currently being declared, the results for Panchayat Samiti and Zila Parishad elections will be announced on May 31.

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