The Himachal Pradesh High Court has granted interim relief to ASHA workers by staying a government order that deemed them ineligible to contest Panchayat elections. The May 2, 2026, communication from the state government classified ASHA workers as part-time employees, which the court found questionable. In the case of Reena Devi & Others vs State of Himachal Pradesh, the petitioners argued that ASHA workers are honorary volunteers under Government of India guidelines, receiving only performance-based incentives rather than fixed salaries. The court recognized a prima facie case in favor of the petitioners, allowing ASHA workers to participate in the upcoming elections scheduled for May 26, 28, and 30 across 3,758 Panchayats in Himachal Pradesh. The nomination process begins on May 7, 2026, for various positions including Pradhan and Ward Member. The court has scheduled further hearings for June 1, 2026, requiring the state government to file a response within two weeks.