- KR Bharat
- 2026-02-25
The Congress government in Telangana is reportedly reassessing its approach towards Mandal Parishad Territorial Constituency (MPTC) and Zilla Parishad Territorial Constituency (ZPTC) elections following underwhelming electoral performance and growing rural discontent. Although a decision on conducting the polls was expected during the recent Cabinet meeting, the issue was not taken up.
With the tenure of MPTC and ZPTC bodies having ended in June 2024 and nearly 19 months passing without elections, aspirants remain uncertain. While there was earlier speculation that Parishad elections would be held before mid-March, the government is now believed to be considering postponement until after June.
Amid this delay, the government is also exploring structural changes, including the possibility of abolishing the MPTC and ZPTC system altogether. A report has been sought from the Panchayat Raj Department, with officials citing administrative efficiency concerns, financial burden, and frequent enforcement of the election code as reasons for potential reforms. Proposals under discussion include reducing the existing five-tier system to a three-tier structure and introducing indirect elections for Mandal Parishad Presidents (MPPs) and Zilla Parishad chairpersons.
