SRINAGAR: The Administration of Union Territory of Ladakh has authorised Returning Officers to decide questions relating to disqualification of candidates during the Municipal Committee Elections, 2026.
According to Order issued by the Housing and Urban Development Department on Wednesday, the authorisation has been given in exercise of powers conferred under Section 16(2)(i) of the Jammu and Kashmir Municipal Act, 2000, and in consultation with the Chief Electoral Officer, UT Ladakh.
Under the order, the Returning Officers concerned, appointed for elections to the Municipal Committees of UT Ladakh, will decide whether a person is or has become subject to any of the disqualifications specified under sub-section (1) of Section 16 of the Act, wherever such question arises during the process of election.
The order further states that the Returning Officers shall, before deciding any such question, provide the person concerned a reasonable opportunity of being heard and shall pass a reasoned and speaking order in accordance with the provisions of the Act.
