New Delhi:
The Election Commission has announced that the Delhi Assembly elections will take place on February 5, with counting scheduled for February 8. A total of 1.55 crore voters will decide the fate of candidates contesting in 70 constituencies, including 12 reserved seats. Over 13,000 polling stations will be set up for the eighth Delhi Assembly elections.
Key Dates
Last date for filing nominations: January 17
Last date for withdrawal of candidacy: January 20
With the announcement, the Model Code of Conduct has come into effect across Delhi.
Special Initiatives
Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar revealed several measures aimed at ensuring smooth elections:
Over 2 lakh first-time voters will participate.
Facilities for the elderly and disabled voters to access polling booths easily.
Voters aged above 85 years can opt to cast their votes from home.
Political Reactions
AAP National Convener Arvind Kejriwal rallied party workers, urging them to focus on “the politics of work” over “the politics of abuse.”
BJP President welcomed the announcement, encouraging voters to choose a government committed to development, emphasizing the BJP’s plans under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.
The Congress, contesting independently, is targeting both the BJP and AAP, aiming to regain its footing in the capital’s political landscape.
Allegations and Assurances
Addressing concerns over Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), the Chief Election Commissioner firmly stated that EVMs are tamper-proof and unhackable, with all allegations of manipulation thoroughly debunked. He also defended the integrity of voter lists, emphasizing rigorous verification processes.
Key Contest
The ruling AAP, led by Arvind Kejriwal, is eyeing a third consecutive term, while the BJP is striving to unseat them with an aggressive campaign. The Congress, despite its diminished influence in recent years, is determined to make an impact by going solo.
With the battle lines drawn, the upcoming elections promise to be a high-stakes contest for Delhi’s political future.
