Hyderabad: The State Election Commission issued a clarification on the voting rights of ex-officio members in upcoming municipal indirect elections.
The clarification pertains to elections for the posts of Mayor, Deputy Mayor, Municipal Chairperson and Vice Chairperson. According to the SEC, voting rights of ex-officio members will follow provisions under the Telangana Municipalities Act, 2019.
The Commission stated that Rajya Sabha Members, Members of the Legislative Council and other ex-officio members must hold valid voter registration within the respective municipal jurisdiction to exercise their vote. Therefore, individuals not registered as voters in the concerned municipal area cannot participate in the voting process.
State Election Commission issues directive after High Court ruling
The State Election Commission issued fresh directives following a High Court ruling on the matter. The court held that ex-officio members who cast votes without being registered voters in the municipal limits would face disqualification. In addition, authorities would treat such votes as invalid.
Subsequently, the Chief Election Commissioner circulated instructions to collectors and district election officers. The notice directed them to ensure strict compliance with the clarified rules.
Consequently, only ex-officio members with valid local voting rights, including Members of Parliament and Members of the Legislative Council, can take part in the indirect elections and influence the final outcome.