Rajasthan Cabinet Removes 2-Child Norm For Local Body Polls After 3 Decades

The Rajasthan Cabinet has made a landmark decision to abolish the long-standing two-child policy that restricted individuals from contesting local body elections, including those for Panchayati Raj institutions and urban local bodies. This policy, which had been in effect for nearly 30 years, aimed to promote population control but faced criticism for its restrictive nature. The removal of this norm is seen as a significant step towards increasing political participation and representation. Advocates argue that it will empower individuals, especially women, by allowing them to engage in the political process without the fear of disqualification due to their family size. This move aligns with broader efforts in Rajasthan to enhance democratic engagement at the grassroots level, reflecting a shift towards more inclusive governance. As the state prepares for upcoming elections, this decision could reshape the political landscape, encouraging a more diverse group of candidates to enter the fray and ultimately fostering a more representative local government system.