Shimla/Kullu, May 30
The three-tier Panchayati Raj elections in Himachal Pradesh concluded peacefully on Saturday with polling held in the third and final phase across the state. Voters turned out enthusiastically to elect representatives to gram panchayats, panchayat samitis and zila parishads, bringing the state’s grassroots democratic exercise to a successful close.
While polling remained largely peaceful and orderly throughout the state, a unique incident from Kullu district highlighted the harmonious coexistence of democracy and Himachal Pradesh’s rich cultural traditions.
At the Kandha polling station in Ward No. 1 of Talada Gram Panchayat in Kullu district, election officials conducted the entire voting process while seated on the floor in deference to a long-standing local religious tradition associated with Deity Garg Rishi.
According to local customs observed in parts of Kandha village, sitting on chairs or sleeping on cots is prohibited out of respect for the deity. Upon learning about the tradition, the polling team decided to honour the local belief and arranged the polling booth without chairs or tables.
Presiding Officer Manoj Mahajan, along with polling officials Manoj Sharma, Somdatt and Charanjit, as well as security personnel Bhagadei and Ishwar Dass, carried out their duties seated on the floor throughout the day. Voting commenced as scheduled after 7 a.m., with villagers participating enthusiastically in the democratic process.
Also Read
A day before Panchayat election SEC cracks whip on ineligible candidates
The rare sight of election officials adapting polling arrangements to accommodate local customs drew appreciation from residents and served as a remarkable example of how democratic institutions can function while respecting age-old cultural traditions.
The incident underscored Himachal Pradesh’s unique blend of democratic values and dev culture, demonstrating that modern electoral processes and traditional beliefs can coexist harmoniously.
As the state completed the final phase of Panchayat elections, the Kandha polling station emerged as a symbol of mutual respect between constitutional democracy and local heritage.
About the Author
