J&K Gets New State Election Commissioner as Shantmanu Takes Charge
Retired IAS Officer Shantmanu Appointed State Election Commissioner of J&K
Jammu, Feb 17: In a significant administrative development, the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Shri Manoj Sinha, on Tuesday appointed retired IAS officer Shantmanu as the State Election Commissioner of the Union Territory.
The appointment was formally notified by the General Administration Department under sub-section (3) of Section 36 of the Jammu and Kashmir Panchayati Raj Act, 1989. With this decision, the Union Territory has entrusted the responsibility of overseeing local body electoral processes to a seasoned administrator with extensive experience in public service.
According to the notification, Shantmanu will hold office for a period of five years from the date he assumes charge, or until he attains the age of 70 years, whichever is earlier. The government has stated that detailed terms and conditions governing his tenure will be notified separately.
The position of State Election Commissioner carries considerable responsibility, particularly in a region where strengthening grassroots democracy remains a key governance priority. The office is tasked with supervising, directing and controlling the preparation of electoral rolls and the conduct of elections to Panchayats and other local bodies, ensuring adherence to constitutional and statutory provisions.
Shantmanu, a retired Indian Administrative Service officer, brings with him decades of administrative experience across diverse sectors.
