GORAKHPUR, Sept. 2 -- Cabinet minister and Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party (SBSP) chief Om Prakash Rajbhar on Monday hinted that the system of direct elections for Panchayat chairmen and block pramukhs could be introduced in the 2026 Panchayat polls. Speaking in Gorakhpur, Rajbhar said the proposal is under consideration and has been discussed with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He added that although constitutional amendments would be required to implement the change, discussions are moving in a positive direction. "We have spoken to the Chief Minister and the Prime Minister about this. Work is moving forward positively, and we have received assurances," he said. Rajbhar mentioned that along with changes in the reservation chart for various seats, the new system could replace the current indirect election of Block Pramukhs and Zilla Panchayat chairmen. Taking a swipe at opposition leaders, including SP chief Akhilesh Yadav, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, Rajbhar dismissed their ongoing campaigns...