The Election Commission of India has announced the polling dates for the upcoming assembly elections in Maharashtra and Jharkhand.
Maharashtra will vote on November 20, with results counted on November 23 and Jharkhand will have elections in two phases on November 13 and 20.
These elections are crucial, as Maharashtra’s assembly term ends on November 26, while Jharkhand’s concludes on January 5, 2025. Major political alliances are expected to contest vigorously in both states.
In Maharashtra, the ruling Mahayuti coalition (BJP and Shiv Sena factions) faces the Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance (Congress and NCP). In Jharkhand, the JMM leads against the BJP and other NDA allies.
The Election Commission of India also announced by-polls to 48 Assembly constituencies and two Lok Sabha seats, including Wayanad, on November 13 and November 20.
On opposition parties allegations of manipulation in the EVMs the Chief Election Commissioner Rajib Kumar said, “Electronic Voting Machines are 100 per cent foolproof,”
The counting of votes will be held on November 23, 2024.
What are the key factors influencing the election schedules in Maharashtra and Jharkhand:
Term Expiration: The Maharashtra Assembly’s term ends on November 26, 2024, while Jharkhand’s term concludes on January 5, 2025, necessitating timely elections to comply with legal requirements.
Political Landscape: In Maharashtra, the ruling Mahayuti coalition faces the Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance. Jharkhand’s elections will see a contest primarily between the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha and the BJP.
Electoral Strategy: The Election Commission aims for efficient polling processes, possibly reducing phases in Jharkhand based on recent successful elections elsewhere.
Photo Credit: airnewsalerts/X
