Veteran administrator brings decades of governance experience to the role
The Rajasthan government has appointed Dr. Rajeshwar Singh (Retd. IAS:1989:RJ) as the new Commissioner of the Rajasthan State Election Commission, succeeding Madhukar Gupta (Retd. IAS:1985:RJ), whose tenure concluded on September 16. The appointment was formally announced on Tuesday by Governor Haribhau Bagde.
A Career Steeped in Governance
Dr. Singh retired in July 2024 as Chairman of the Revenue Board, capping a distinguished career in public service. Over the years, he has held several pivotal positions, including:
Collector of Jaipur
Additional Chief Secretary, Panchayati Raj and Rural Development
Director General, Indira Gandhi Panchayati Raj Institute
Divisional Commissioner and Collector in multiple key districts of Rajasthan
His deep experience in local governance and rural administration is expected to enhance the Commission’s ability to oversee fair, transparent, and efficient local body elections.
Chosen Among Four Contenders
Dr. Singh’s name had figured prominently among the frontrunners for the post. Other contenders included P.K. Goyal (Retd. IAS:1988:RJ), Shubhra Singh (IAS:1989:RJ), and Anand Kumar (IAS:1994:RJ). Ultimately, Dr. Singh was selected for his extensive track record in rural governance and administrative leadership.
End of Madhukar Gupta’s Term
Madhukar Gupta, who assumed charge as State Election Commissioner in August 2022, demitted office upon completing his term on September 16. His tenure was marked by outspoken interventions, including criticism of delays in holding Panchayat elections, despite the Commission’s readiness.
He had also voiced skepticism about the “One State, One Election” concept, asserting that such a move would require constitutional amendments and was not feasible under the present framework.
Looking Ahead
With Dr. Rajeshwar Singh at the helm, the Rajasthan State Election Commission is expected to prioritize the conduct of pending rural polls, institutional strengthening, and ensuring greater transparency in the electoral process at the grassroots level.
