In a unique display of unity and community spirit, residents of the newly constituted Malang Panchayat in Lahaul and Spiti district have unanimously decided to elect their panchayat representatives unopposed, even before the formal nomination process begins.
During a meeting, villagers collectively agreed to select their panchayat leadership through consensus rather than contesting elections. As part of this decision, Dechen Dolma has been chosen as the proposed Pradhan, while former Panchayat Samiti member Anil Sehgal has been selected as the Up-Pradhan.
For the five wards of the panchayat, residents have also agreed on consensus candidates: Phunchog Dolma (Ward 1), Devendet Katoch (Ward 2), Mandasi (Ward 3), Dawa Dolma (Ward 4) and Jeevan Lal (Ward 5).
Speaking on the development, Anil Sehgal said the decision was taken collectively by all villagers to ensure unity and to qualify for the state government’s incentive of Rs 25 lakh, announced for panchayats elected unopposed. He added that the primary goal is to promote development and maintain harmony among all villages under the panchayat.
Villagers also resolved to follow a similar consensus-based approach in future panchayat elections to strengthen brotherhood and keep local governance free from political rivalry.
Residents welcomed the move, calling it a historic and progressive step. They expressed hope that the decision would accelerate development and set an example for other panchayats across the state. Lahaul and Spiti MLA Anuradha Rana also appreciated the move of residents and congratulated the new elected body of panchayat.
The final election process will proceed formally, but the outcome is expected to remain uncontested following this rare pre-nomination consensus.
