Representatives seek revised Zila Parishad delimitation plan

The delimitation proposal of Zila Parishad wards in Chamba district has drawn criticism from several public representatives, who allege that the new boundaries are arbitrary and ignore geographical logic and administrative norms.

Addressing a press conference, Zila Parishad member Manoj Kumar Manu expressed strong opposition to the new ward boundaries, stating that delimitation should be based on maps and geography. “In the new delimitation, panchayats from the east have been placed in the west, and those from the north have been moved to the south. This defies all logic,” he said.

Speaking specifically about the Kariyan Zila Parishad ward, he noted that earlier all included panchayats fell under the same direction and administrative block—Mahela. “The population was appropriate, the direction aligned with the map, and the assembly constituency was consistent. There was no need to alter this arrangement,” he added.

The Chamba DC had earlier invited suggestions and objections regarding the proposed delimitation. A hearing on the matter was held today, though a final decision is still pending.

Zila Parishad Chairperson Dr Neelam Kumari also raised objections, pointing out that despite nine panchayats belonging to the Mahela development block, the Vaktpur ward has been eliminated. She suggested that the ward should be retained as it was before, and any shortfall in the number of panchayats could be balanced by shifting a few from the Sunara ward. “Previously, even Gram Panchayat Bakaan was part of the Vaktpur ward, which was then under Sach,” she said.

Adding to the concerns, Trilok Singh, BDC member of Kuthed Dulahar Panchayat and a member of the District Grievance Redressal Committee, highlighted discrepancies in population distribution. He pointed out that, according to Panchayati Raj rules, each Zila Parishad ward should represent around 25,000 people.

However, the Holi ward has only 17,896 people and Bharmour has 21,212, while Sanwal and Chanju wards in the Tissa block have significantly higher populations—38,146 and 37,601 respectively. “As per the 2011 Census, the total population of these two wards is 75,747 and could now be over 1 lakh,” he stated.

He demanded that an additional Zila Parishad ward be created in the Tissa development block to ensure fair representation. As public representatives continue to voice concerns, all eyes are now on the district administration for a balanced and transparent resolution.

Himachal Tribune