The Rajasthan State Election Commission has officially adjusted the schedule for the upcoming Panchayati Raj elections across the state. Taking into consideration public sentiment and religious observances linked to the Dhanteras festival, the commission updated selected dates across the first, second, and third phases. Under this modified timeline, changes have been applied to the departure schedules of polling personnel as well as voting days for Zila Parishad and Panchayat Samiti members, while all remaining parts of the election process will continue without alteration.
Revised Timeline for the First Phase
According to the updated directives published by the State Election Commission, polling parties assigned to the initial phase will now depart and arrive at their allocated voting locations on 21 October 2026. On the following day, 22 October, voting will take place for Zila Parishad and Panchayat Samiti member seats. For the grassroots positions of Panch and Sarpanch, candidates will file their nominations on 23 October. Balloting for Panch and Sarpanch posts will occur on 24 October, followed by the election of the Up-Sarpanch on 25 October.
Second Phase Voting and Nomination Deadlines
The second stage of the electoral process has also been recalibrated under the revised plan. Polling staff dedicated to this round will set out on 27 October to reach their designated election centers. Polling for Zila Parishad and Panchayat Samiti representatives will proceed on 28 October. Aspirants looking to contest for Panch and Sarpanch roles can file their nomination paperwork on 29 October, leading to voting for both posts on 30 October. The process for choosing the Up-Sarpanch in this second block is slated for 31 October.
Third Phase Adjustments and Indirect Elections
In the third phase, polling teams are now scheduled to depart and reach their polling stations on 2 November. Eligible voters will cast their ballots for Zila Parishad and Panchayat Samiti members on 3 November. Nominations for Panch and Sarpanch positions will be conducted on 4 November, with actual voting for these village representatives set for 5 November. Furthermore, the indirect election for Up-Sarpanch by the elected ward panchs will be organized in the forenoon hours of 6 November.
Adjustments Rooted in Festive Respect with Other Details Intact
The formal order issued by the State Election Commissioner of Rajasthan outlined that these adjustments were implemented out of deference to religious sentiment and public expectations surrounding Dhanteras. The commission underscored that except for the specified dates that were moved, the remainder of the previously announced Panchayati Raj election schedule will stay completely in place. The modification ensures smooth election logistics while accommodating holiday preparations across participating rural areas.
