Nainital: It has been 78 long years since India gained independence. As a democracy, representatives are elected by the people through an electoral voting process. However, you may be surprised to learn about a village in Uttarakhand’s Nainital where there have been no formal elections for the post of village head for 78 years. Instead, the people in Talla Bothon village select their leader through mutual discussion and consensus.
At least 10 village heads (Gram Pradhans) have been elected unopposed in this village over a period of time. This time too, the local election authorities receive only single nomination from the village, and as a result, the candidate was elected unopposed. The residents claim they save funds by not conducting elections and the same money can be used for the betterment of the village.
How Talla Bothon elects its gram pradhan
The process to elect the gram pradhan begins with the meeting of the village elders, who take into account reservation policies and shortlist a few candidates. These candidates and their families are then invited to a meeting during which each nominee presents their views and vision for the village. Among them, the most deserving and honest candidate is chosen, and their nomination is submitted to the authorities.
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Electoral funds used for village development
Former gram pradhan Geeta Mohra said that there was neither voting nor campaigning during her selection. The villagers believe that avoiding the electoral process fosters greater unity among the people. They also insist that a leader’s role is to serve the people and work for their welfare.
The villagers demand that the money allocated for election in the village should be used for local development. Over the years, the village has witnessed significant improvements such as paved roads, water facilities, and solar lighting reflecting the development works in the village.
