India, May 21 -- LUCKNOW In what could be seen as a move to retain the Bharatiya Janata Party's grassroots network ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections, the UP government is actively considering appointing village pradhans as administrators following the expiry of five-year term of existing gram panchayats on May 26, marking a significant departure from past practice.

If implemented, it would be the first time in the state's history that elected pradhans are retained in administrative capacities post-tenure. Traditionally, the state has appointed assistant development officers (panchayat) to oversee operations during the interim period between the expiry of terms and fresh elections.

Pradhans, who often play a key role in mobilising vot...