**Lucknow:** The three-tier panchayat elections in Uttar Pradesh, scheduled for April-May 2026, may face delays due to the non-formation of a dedicated commission for Other Backward Class (OBC) reservation.
The tenure of the Gram Panchayats, Kshetra Panchayats, and Zila Panchayats ends on May 26, July 19, and July 11 next year, respectively. This means the elections are required to be held before these dates. However, similar to the municipal elections, the OBC reservation formula needs to be finalized prior to conducting the polls.
### Role of Proposed Commission
The proposed commission is tasked with studying the socio-economic and political status of OBCs in the state. Based on this study, it will submit its recommendations to the government. According to a Supreme Court ruling, OBC reservation cannot be implemented without such a report.
### Timeline Challenges
Sources indicate that the commission will need to conduct district visits and may require up to six months to prepare its report. This duration raises the likelihood of postponing the elections.
A Panchayati Raj official confirmed that the proposal for the commission has already been sent to the state government. The election schedule now depends on the government’s decision regarding this proposal.
*Also watch:* Developments on the reservation formula and election timelines will be closely monitored in the coming months.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/uttar-pradesh/up-panchayat-elections-2026-obc-reservation-commission-delay-may-postpone-polls