A recent analysis has revealed that State Election Commissions (SECs) across India are operating under severe institutional limitations, hampering timely elections in urban local bodies (ULBs).

The report, prepared by civic group Janaagraha, noted that 61% of ULBs in 17 states have missed election deadlines. In some cases, the delays have stretched from several months to over four years. The study attributed this largely to the lack of authority given to SECs over crucial functions such as delimitation of wards and reservation of seats.

Currently, only eight SECs have control over both delimitation and reservation, while 24 commissions hold neither power. The remaining two have authority over delimitation alone. This uneven distribution of responsibilities has led to frequent dependence on state governments, creating conditions for postponements and prolonged vacancies.

Experts argue that such constraints weaken local democracy by denying citizens elected representation at the municipal level. The absence of elected bodies also affects the delivery of essential urban services and limits accountability in governance.

The report recommends comprehensive reforms, including granting SECs explicit powers through constitutional clarity and ensuring fixed timelines for conducting elections. Analysts say strengthening SECs is essential to protect grassroots democracy and reduce political interference.

The findings have renewed debate on municipal reforms, highlighting the urgent need to empower local institutions and restore timely elections across India’s towns and cities.