Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, has named former senior IAS officer Shantmanu as the State Election Commissioner for the Union Territory. Shantmanu’s appointment, made under the Jammu and Kashmir Panchayati Raj Act, 1989, is effective for five years or until he turns 70, whichever comes first.
Shantmanu, who retired as the Financial Commissioner of Jammu and Kashmir on December 31, 2025, will assume office as the State Election Commissioner upon taking charge. His terms and conditions of service will be specified by the government subsequently. Previously, B.R. Sharma served as the State Election Commissioner before retiring in 2020.
With Shantmanu’s appointment, preparations for Panchayat elections in Jammu and Kashmir are underway. The elections are expected to be held later this year following the conclusion of the terms of the elected representatives in the Union Territory. The District Development Councils in Jammu and Kashmir are also set to complete their terms by February 24, 2026.
