Andhra Pradesh Sets Rules for Direct Election of Mayors, Municipal Heads

The state government of Andhra Pradesh announced a set of rules that pave the way for the direct election of mayors and municipal chairpersons across its urban local bodies. The notification, issued by the Department of Municipal Administration and Urban Development, outlines the procedural framework for conducting these elections without the current system of indirect voting by elected councilors.

Under the new guidelines, eligible voters in municipal areas will cast ballots for mayoral and chairperson posts, with the election schedule to be finalized by the State Election Commission. The rules also specify criteria for candidate eligibility, campaign financing, and the use of electronic voting machines to ensure transparency.

State officials said the move aims to strengthen grassroots democracy and improve accountability of urban leaders. The changes are expected to be implemented in the next municipal election cycle, pending final approval from the state cabinet and the Election Commission of India.