Shimla, April 1 -- The Himachal Pradesh government on Wednesday introduced a key amendment to the Himachal Pradesh Panchayati Raj Act, 1994, proposing to bar individuals involved in drug offences, financial irregularities, land encroachment and conflict of interest from contesting Panchayat elections.

The amendment Bill was tabled in the Assembly by Panchayati Raj Minister Anirudh Singh, with the aim of strengthening transparency and accountability in grassroots governance.

According to the Statement of Objects and Reasons, the proposed legislation seeks to curb the growing menace of drug abuse and illicit financial activities, prevent misuse of public office, and ensure clean electoral practices in rural institutions.

The Bill propose...