Jaipur: The govt’s decision to scrap two-child norm for candidates contesting urban local body and panchayat elections has evoked mixed response from former councillors and aspiring candidates.While several aspiring candidates welcomed the move as a long-overdue relief, others expressed concern, calling it a partial decision that could complicate election dynamics. Some candidates said that if the two-child policy was being removed, the govt should also make educational qualifications mandatory. “The decision is incomplete,” said one aspirant, adding that education should be introduced as a basic eligibility criterion. Former councillor Dashrath Singh Shekhawat criticised the move, saying it sent the wrong message. “On one hand, the govt talks about population control. On the other, sarpanches and councillors are people who directly influence society. By removing this rule, the govt weakened the foundation,” he said. He added that if the rule was scrapped, education should be made compulsory. “At least that would ensure that responsible and capable people came forward to contest elections,” Shekhawat said. Ramesh Bhati, who is seeking a ticket for the upcoming elections, said the decision added to candidates’ worries. “Wards have already been reduced. Now, with this rule gone, the number of candidates will increase further. We will have to completely change our election strategy. For first-time candidates, this will be a major challenge,” he said. However, former councillor Mohammed Zakariya welcomed the move, saying it would allow capable people to contest elections. “Many deserving candidates were unable to contest only because they did not fit into this policy. Now they will get a chance,” he said. At the same time, Zakariya also stressed the need for an educational filter. “If a candidate has more than 2 children, education should at least be made mandatory. A well-educated councillor is essential for the public,” he said. Virendra Solanki, who plans to contest the upcoming elections and has more than 2 children, said the decision came as a relief. “We wanted to contest elections and understand political responsibilities, but were excluded because of 1 policy. With the rule removed, we will now prepare seriously and enter the ULB elections,” he said.
