Chandigarh, April 25 — A spokesperson of the Haryana State Election Commission informed that the Commission had been receiving queries from various districts regarding the eligibility of individuals belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC) and Backward Classes ‘A’ and ‘B’ categories from other states for reservation benefits in municipal elections in Haryana.
The spokesperson stated that, in this regard, detailed guidelines had already been issued by the Commission to all Deputy Commissioners on February 14, 2025. However, as queries continued to be received, the clarification has been re-circulated to all districts to ensure that the concerned officials clearly understand and strictly comply with the directions.
He clarified that as per the instructions issued by the Law and Legislative Department, caste certificates pertaining to Scheduled Castes or Backward Classes ‘A’ and ‘B’ issued by other states will not be considered valid for availing reservation benefits in municipal elections in Haryana.
No Eligibility on the Basis of Marriage
The spokesperson further stated that if a woman belongs to another state, she will not be eligible for reservation benefits in Haryana merely on the basis of marriage, even if her caste is included in Haryana’s list.
Strict Compliance for Transparent Election Process
He added that all Returning Officers, Assistant Returning Officers, and other concerned officials have been directed to ensure strict compliance with these guidelines during the scrutiny of nomination papers, so that the election process is conducted in a fair, transparent, and rule-based manner.