Hyderabad: The Telangana government has paused the distribution of Indiramma sarees following the enforcement of the panchayat election code. Officials confirmed that the scheme, which began on November 19, was halted midway due to the model code of conduct. The state had distributed 44 lakh sarees before the suspension, against its total target of one crore.
The sarees, a key welfare initiative, were being handed out across rural and urban areas in the lead-up to the panchayat polls. However, election guidelines prohibit large-scale government distribution schemes during the poll period to prevent undue influence on voters. Officials stated that distribution would resume only after the conclusion of the election process.
Nomination scrutiny and appeals underway in panchayat polls
Meanwhile, the nomination process for the first phase of panchayat elections concluded on Saturday, November 29. On Sunday, officials began the scrutiny of nominations. After this process, returning officers will release the list of valid candidates.
Candidates whose nominations are rejected can file an appeal the very next day with the relevant Revenue Divisional Officer or Sub-Collector. The appellate officer is expected to resolve these appeals within 24 hours.
Election officials stressed the importance of complete documentation during nomination. Past rejections often resulted from incomplete forms or missing documents. To avoid disqualification, candidates have been advised to keep all relevant papers ready during scrutiny.
Candidates may withdraw from the contest until 3 PM on Wednesday. After that deadline, officials will publish the final list of candidates contesting for sarpanch and ward member positions.