Delhi corporations go to EC for nod to hold mayoral elections

NEW DELHI: If all goes as per plan, then the annual elections for the post of mayor, deputy mayor and members of standing committee will take place on its scheduled time.
A senior north corporation official said the screening committee has already recommended the matter related to holding mayoral election in all three civic agencies in April to the chief electoral office.
Since the model code of conduct is in force from March 10 due to the Lok Sabha election 2019, the civic agencies decided to follow due procedure and pursue the matter with screening committee, headed by the chief secretary, first.
"We had written to the screening committee last month, seeking approval to hold elections on time referencing the Delhi Municipal Corporation Act. We shall apply with the CEO and Election Commission of India for the final approval," said a north corporation official.
The Section 35 of DMC act says, "the corporation, in its first meeting held after commencement of new financial year (which is April 1), should elect a mayor and deputy mayor," mentioned in the letter forwarded to screening committee.
As soon as the final approval is received, the process for accepting applications from perspective candidates will start, said a senior north corporation official. "We will need time to hold elections for other statutory, special and ad-hoc committees as well," he said.
"Holding elections on time will help civic agencies to carry their regular activities and progress of civic works. However, no policy decision and agenda can be passed till model code of conduct is in force," said a senior SDMC official.