Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has appointed retired IAS officer Shantmanu as the new State Election Commissioner (SEC). This move fills a vacancy that has persisted since April 2024, when previous commissioner BR Sharma’s term ended.
Appointment Details
The appointment was made under sub-section (3) of Section 36 of the Jammu and Kashmir Panchayati Raj Act, 1989, via a notification from the General Administration Department (GAD) dated February 17, 2026. Shantmanu, from the erstwhile J&K cadre, will serve for five years or until age 70, whichever comes first, effective from the date he assumes charge. Terms and conditions will be notified separately by the government.
Role and Context
The SEC oversees elections for panchayats, municipalities, Block Development Councils (BDCs), and District Development Councils (DDCs) in the Union Territory.This appointment comes amid preparations for local body polls, ensuring smooth conduct of grassroots democracy. Copies of the notification were sent to key officials, including the Principal Secretary to the Election Commission of India and the Additional Chief Secretary (Home).
