Polling for the second phase of Gram Panchayat elections began today in Telangana, covering 3,911 Sarpanch and 29,917 ward member posts across 193 mandals. A total of 12,782 candidates are contesting for Sarpanch positions and 71,071 for ward member seats. Voting started at 7:00 AM, and by 6:00 AM, long queues had already formed at many polling centers. Being a Sunday, youth voters showed keen interest, resulting in a visible turnout of young voters across stations. Polling will continue until 1:00 PM, followed by counting from 2:00 PM and declaration of results. Subsequently, meetings of ward members will be held to elect Vice-Sarpanch.
Although Congress dominated the first phase, BRS also put up stiff competition. Despite these being non-party symbol elections, both parties are contesting assertively, treating the results as a precursor to assembly elections. Congress aims to secure more seats this time, while BRS is prepared to challenge strongly. Notifications were issued for 4,333 Sarpanch and 38,350 ward member posts in the second phase, of which 415 Sarpanch and 8,307 ward member seats were elected unopposed. Nominations were not filed in five villages and 108 wards, and elections were deferred in two villages and 18 wards.
A total of 4,593 returning officers and 30,661 staff are engaged in election duties, with 2,489 micro-observers appointed. Voting at 3,769 sensitive centers is being webcast, and 40,626 ballot papers are being used. Ministers, MLAs, and MLCs are actively mobilizing voters in their constituencies to win more Sarpanch seats, arranging special vehicles for voter transport. Observers expect a significant increase in voter turnout compared to previous phases.