Unanimous Panchayat Elections in Srikakulam District Face Uncertain Future

Srikakulam district in Andhra Pradesh is witnessing potential disruptions to its long-standing tradition of unanimous local body elections. Traditionally, villagers come together to unanimously elect sarpanches to maintain peace and solidarity in rural areas.

During the previous local body elections in February 2021, a total of 137 gram panchayats across Srikakulam district achieved unanimous elections. Villages such as Chinna Rompivalasa in Laveru mandal, Santavuriti, Kapparam, Venkayyapeta, and SRC Puram in G.Sigadam mandal, and Mabagam in Polaki mandal elected their representatives without contest to prevent local disputes.

However, criticism has surfaced following reports that YSRCP leadership has warned party leaders that their tickets will be cancelled if elections are made unanimous in the upcoming polls. Critics allege that self-serving political motives are harming rural unity and forcing unnecessary contests that could disturb the peaceful environment in these villages.