The Delhi High Court has issued a directive to the chief secretary to ensure the timely preparation of fresh electoral rolls for the upcoming gurdwara elections in August. The court emphasized the importance of following a specific timeline in accordance with the rules set by the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee.
Justice Mini Pushkarna expressed deep concern over the delay in commencing the process of preparing photo electoral rolls for the gurdwara wards in Delhi, despite previous instructions to do so. The court took a stern stance on the matter, urging the Chief Secretary to ensure that the necessary manpower is allocated to the Directorate of Gurdwara Elections to kickstart the process promptly.
Delays in Electoral Roll Preparation
The court’s intervention came in response to a petition filed by Gurmeet Singh Shunty and Paramjit Singh Khurana, who highlighted the failure of authorities to complete the preparation of fresh electoral rolls as mandated by the court in 2022. The petitioners sought a court order to compel the authorities to fulfill their obligations and update the electoral rolls for all wards without further delay.
In its ruling, the Delhi High Court underscored the importance of adhering to the prescribed rules and regulations governing the electoral process for gurdwara elections. The court emphasized the need for a clear timeline to guide the officials responsible for carrying out the preparation of the photo electoral rolls for the 46 wards in accordance with the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (Registration of Electors) Rules, 1973.
Ensuring Transparency and Accountability
The court’s directive aims to ensure transparency and accountability in the electoral process, particularly in the context of gurdwara elections where community representation and participation are paramount. By setting a specific timeline for the preparation of fresh electoral rolls, the court seeks to streamline the electoral process and prevent any further delays that could undermine the integrity of the elections.
The Chief Secretary of the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi has been tasked with overseeing the implementation of the court’s directive and coordinating with the relevant officials to expedite the preparation of the electoral rolls. This proactive approach is essential to ensure that the electoral process remains fair, efficient, and inclusive, reflecting the principles of democracy and good governance.
In conclusion, the Delhi High Court’s emphasis on the timely preparation of fresh electoral rolls for the gurdwara elections underscores the importance of upholding the rule of law and ensuring the integrity of the electoral process. By holding authorities accountable and setting clear guidelines for the preparation of electoral rolls, the court’s intervention seeks to safeguard the democratic rights of the electorate and uphold the principles of transparency and accountability in the electoral system.
