Now, Rajasthan Assembly passes Bill to repeal two-child norm forULBelections

Now, Rajasthan Assembly passes Bill to repeal two-child norm forULBelections

## Rajasthan Legislature Rescinds Two-Child Policy for Local Body Elections

**Jaipur, Rajasthan –** The Rajasthan Legislative Assembly has officially repealed a controversial two-child norm that previously disqualified individuals from contesting elections for urban local bodies (ULBs). The move, which passed with significant legislative backing, marks a notable shift in the state’s electoral eligibility criteria for local governance.

The legislation, introduced and debated in the Assembly, effectively removes the requirement for candidates to have no more than two living children to be eligible to stand for election in municipal corporations, municipalities, and nagar panchayats. This policy, enacted in 2009, had been a subject of ongoing discussion and criticism since its inception, with various groups arguing it infringed upon personal reproductive rights and disproportionately affected certain sections of society.

Proponents of the repeal argued that the two-child norm was an overreach of government authority into private family planning decisions. They emphasized that such a mandate could inadvertently penalize individuals for circumstances beyond their control, including the unfortunate loss of a child. Furthermore, concerns were raised about its potential to exacerbate existing social and economic disparities, as families in more vulnerable economic situations might face greater challenges in adhering to such a restriction. The repeal is seen by many as a step towards ensuring broader participation in local democracy and upholding individual freedoms.

The original legislation was introduced with the stated aim of promoting family planning and population control. However, over the years, its practical application and ethical implications came under scrutiny. Critics pointed out that while the intention might have been laudable, the method of enforcement through electoral disqualification was problematic. The decision to repeal the norm reflects a broader reconsideration of such restrictive policies and a move towards a more inclusive electoral framework for local self-governance.

The passage of the bill signifies a commitment by the state government to revisit and reform policies that may have unintended consequences. The legislative process involved robust debate, with members from across the political spectrum contributing to the discussion. The final vote demonstrated a consensus on the need to remove this specific eligibility criterion, paving the way for a more open and accessible process for individuals aspiring to serve their communities at the local level.

This legislative development is expected to have a tangible impact on future ULB elections in Rajasthan. It will broaden the pool of eligible candidates, potentially leading to a more diverse representation of voices and perspectives within local government. The repeal underscores a growing recognition of the importance of individual autonomy and the need for electoral laws to be both equitable and reflective of contemporary societal values. As Rajasthan moves forward, this policy change is likely to be viewed as a significant step in strengthening its democratic institutions at the grassroots.

This article was created based on information from various sources and rewritten for clarity and originality.