LUCKNOW, June 5 -- The Uttar Pradesh government is preparing to overhaul the state's rural electoral system by introducing direct elections for zila panchayat chairman and block pramukhs from 2026, replacing the current indirect voting method. A formal proposal for the constitutional amendment required is set to be sent to the Centre soon.

Panchayati Raj minister Om Prakash Rajbhar, who is also the chief of Suheldev Bhartiya Samaj Party (SBSP), an ally of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), said the move is being planned for the upcoming three-tier panchayat elections expected in May 2026.

"The proposal for direct elections will soon be submitted to the central government. It has been discussed with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Uni...