ECI Reschedules Rajasthan Polling Date to November 25, Shifting from November 23
The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Wednesday, October 12, 2023, revised the polling date for the Rajasthan Assembly elections from November 23 to November 25. The decision was taken after the ECI received representations from various political parties and social organizations requesting a change in the date due to large-scale weddings and social gatherings planned across the state on November 23.
The change in the polling date is a significant development in the run-up to the Rajasthan Assembly elections. It is the first time that the ECI has changed the polling date for a state assembly election so close to the scheduled date.
Why did the Election Commission of India change the polling date?
The Election Commission of India cited two main reasons for changing the polling date:
Large-scale weddings and social gatherings on November 23: November 23 coincides with Dev Uthani Ekadashi, an auspicious occasion for Hindu weddings. The Election Commission of India was concerned that the large-scale weddings and social gatherings planned on that day could lead to low voter turnout, as many people would be busy with their own festivities or attending the festivities of others.
Logistical challenges: The Election Commission of India also expressed concern about the logistical challenges of conducting polling on a day when there are large-scale weddings and social gatherings. For example, it would be difficult to deploy polling personnel and security forces to all polling stations on time, and there is a risk of overcrowding at polling stations.
What does the change in polling date mean for voters and candidates?
The change in polling date has both implications for voters and candidates.
For voters, the change in polling date means that they will have two additional days to cast their votes. This is particularly beneficial for voters who are traveling on November 23 or who have other commitments that would have prevented them from voting on that day.
For candidates, the change in polling date means that they have two additional days to campaign for votes. This could give them a slight advantage over their opponents, but it is unlikely to have a major impact on the outcome of the election.
What impact will the change in polling date have on the outcome of the election?
It is difficult to say with certainty what impact the change in polling date will have on the outcome of the Rajasthan Assembly elections. However, it is possible that the change could lead to a slight increase in voter turnout, which could benefit the ruling Congress party. The Congress party has a strong base in rural Rajasthan, where wedding season is typically at its peak in November.
Overall, the Election Commission of India decision to change the polling date for the Rajasthan Assembly elections is a significant development. It is a sign that the Election Commission of India is committed to ensuring that all voters have an opportunity to cast their votes freely and fairly.
In addition to the above, here are some other thoughts on the EC’s decision to change the polling date for the Rajasthan Assembly elections:
The decision is a welcome one, as it will allow more people to vote.
It is also a sign that the Election Commission of India is listening to the concerns of the people.
The decision is likely to have a positive impact on voter turnout, which is always a good thing.
It is also likely to reduce the logistical challenges of conducting the elections.
However, it is important to note that the change in polling date could also benefit the ruling Congress party, as it has a strong base in rural Rajasthan, where wedding season is typically at its peak in November.
It is therefore important for the other parties to make the most of the two additional days to campaign for votes.
Source: Election Commission of India (ECI) Reschedules Rajasthan Polling Date
Conclusion
The EC’s decision to change the polling date for the Rajasthan Assembly elections is a significant development. It is a sign that the EC is committed to ensuring that all voters have an opportunity to cast their votes freely and fairly. The decision is likely to have a positive impact on voter turnout and reduce the logistical challenges of conducting the elections. However, it is important to note that the change in polling date could also benefit the ruling Congress party.
