Chandigarh : In a major administrative decision, the Punjab Cabinet led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann approved amendments to the Election Department’s service rules aimed at strengthening the state’s election machinery ahead of the upcoming Punjab Assembly elections. The reforms are expected to significantly improve functioning in the Punjab election system by removing long-pending administrative bottlenecks.
The decision was taken during a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, where the government focused on ensuring smooth conduct of the special revision of voter lists and efficient staffing of key positions within the Punjab election system.
Promotion criteria relaxed to fill key vacancies in Election Department
Under the approved amendment, the required experience for promotion from Election Kanungo to Election Tehsildar has been reduced from 15 years to 12 years. This change was introduced to address seven vacant posts of Election Tehsildar, which were affecting the functioning of the Punjab election system.
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Officials noted that with the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists and preparations for the Punjab Assembly elections, strengthening the Punjab election system has become a priority. The revised rules will allow eligible officers to be promoted and help fill critical gaps in the election administration framework.
Government removes administrative hurdles to ensure smooth election process
The Punjab government stated that the reforms will eliminate administrative delays and ensure smooth execution of election-related duties. By addressing staffing shortages, the state aims to enhance efficiency in the Punjab election system and ensure timely completion of voter-related processes.
The Cabinet also approved amendments to facilitate smoother functioning of election offices, ensuring that election responsibilities are carried out without disruption in the Punjab election system.
Approval of Water Resources Department annual report
In the same meeting, the Cabinet approved the Annual Administrative Report of the Water Resources Department for the year 2025–26. This approval will help document and review the department’s administrative performance and achievements during the financial year.
Officials said the decisions reflect the government’s broader focus on improving governance efficiency while simultaneously strengthening the Punjab election system ahead of the state elections.