Himachal Pradesh Panchayati Raj Act, 1994 (4 of 1994), Section 28(1) -- Constitution of Inida, Article 243E -- Election of Panchayat -- Term of Panchayat to expire on 31.01.2026 – Deemed dissolution after 5 years -- On expiry of duration Panchayati Raj Institutions shall be deemed to have been dissolved -- Reconstitution of Panchayat shall be completed before expiry of period of 6 months from the date of dissolution -- Rule is to conduct election/ reconstitution of Panchayati Raj Institutions before expiry of tenure of 5 years and the reconstitution of Gram Panchayat after expiry of duration, but within six months thereafter, is an exception -- It cannot be claimed as a matter of right, by the Government to decide to reconstitute the Panchayat after the expiry of duration, but within six months thereafter -- Claim of the respondent-State that it has a right and authority to defer reconstitution of election for one or other reason within six months after expiry of duration, is not legal, justified, and sustainable – Election of Panchayati Raj Institutions cannot be deferred on account of pendency of creation or re-organization of Panchayats as well as Urban Local Bodies in small pockets, in two or three Districts -- Connectivity problem can also not be a reason to defer the election in entire State --  Election directed to be conducted on or before 30.04.2026.

(Para 57, 61, 71)