Overview Sri Ganesh Narayanan , the Secunderabad Cantonment MLA , has intensified his demand for the merger of civil areas of the Secunderabad Cantonment Board (SCB) with the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) . This demand is being made before the upcoming Urban Local Body (ULB) elections. The MLA argues that any further delay would deny residents their democratic right to elect local representatives. Key Developments Hunger Strike and Protest On Tuesday, January 20, 2026 , Sri Ganesh Narayanan began a hunger strike in Hyderabad. He is accusing the Union Government of repeatedly postponing the merger and neglecting the welfare of the Cantonment residents. This form of protest highlights the urgency and importance the MLA places on this issue. Lack of Elections The SCB polls were last held in January 2015 , and elections have not been conducted since 2020 . This prolonged absence of elections has resulted in a lack of elected representatives and inadequate funds, leading to stalled development and daily hardships for residents. The absence of an elected local body has created an accountability vacuum in the area. Demand for Merger Before GHMC Elections Mr. Narayanan stressed that the demand has become more urgent in view of the forthcoming GHMC elections. He stated that the Cantonment area should be merged with the GHMC before the polls so that residents could vote for their representatives and participate fully in urban governance. Extension of Nominated Members' Tenure Over the last six years, the Centre has issued gazette notifications every year, extending the tenure of nominated members of the Cantonment Board by one year, without conducting elections. This pattern indicates a lack of seriousness on the part of the Union government in restoring democratic governance in the Cantonment. Financial Concerns Mr. Narayanan claimed that around ₹1,200 crores due to the Cantonment Board were not released and that no special grants were provided by the Centre. This financial constraint further exacerbates the developmental issues in the Cantonment area. Future Course of Action Mr. Narayanan said that he would give the Centre three days’ time to respond. After that, they would announce their future course of action, including plans to travel to Delhi and increase pressure on the BJP-led Union government. Criticism of Malkajgiri MP The MLA also criticised Malkajgiri MP Eatala Rajender , alleging that he had not taken any meaningful initiative on the merger despite repeated representations. He urged the MP to break his silence and take a proactive stand in favour of the Cantonment’s integration with GHMC . UPSC Relevance This news article is relevant to the UPSC Civil Services Exam , particularly under GS Paper II (Governance, Polity, and Social Justice) . It touches upon issues related to urban local governance, the role of Cantonment Boards, and the relationship between state and central governments. The absence of elected representatives and the alleged financial neglect are critical aspects that can be analyzed from a governance perspective. Key Issues for Analysis The challenges in merging civil areas of Cantonment Boards with municipal corporations. The impact of the absence of elected representatives on local governance and accountability. The role and responsibilities of the Union Government in the administration and funding of Cantonment Boards. The effectiveness of nominated members versus elected representatives in local governance.