NEW DELHI: The Election Commission has officially announced the schedule for the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections. Voters in the capital will head to the polls on February 5, with the counting of votes slated for February 8. The election will determine the representatives for Delhi’s 70 Assembly constituencies, including 12 seats reserved for specific categories. In total, 13,033 polling stations will be set up for this significant democratic exercise.
Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar shared that the election will take place in a single phase. Candidates must file their nominations by January 17, with the deadline for withdrawing candidacy set for January 20. With the announcement, the model code of conduct is now in effect across Delhi.
Kumar emphasized several initiatives aimed at ensuring a smooth voting process, particularly for the elderly and individuals with disabilities. Special arrangements will be made to facilitate easy access to polling booths, and voters over the age of 85 will have the option to cast their votes from home. He also noted that over two lakh young voters will be participating for the first time.
Reacting to the announcement, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Arvind Kejriwal rallied his party workers, urging them to work tirelessly. “This election is a contest between the politics of work and the politics of abuse. With your dedication, we will win,” Kejriwal stated in a message to his supporters.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) also welcomed the announcement. The party president appealed to Delhi residents to elect a government that will drive the city’s development. He reiterated the BJP’s commitment to comprehensive progress under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
During the press briefing, the Chief Election Commissioner addressed concerns about the integrity of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). He asserted that EVMs are secure and cannot be hacked, dismissing all allegations of tampering. “EVMs have consistently ensured free and fair elections,” Kumar stated.
The Election Commission also responded to allegations from both the AAP and the BJP about voter list manipulations. Kumar assured that any changes to the voter lists are carried out with strict adherence to established procedures.
As the election approaches, the AAP is seeking a third consecutive term, while the BJP aims to reclaim power. The Congress, meanwhile, is contesting independently, targeting both the ruling AAP and the opposition BJP.
Stay tuned for more updates on this crucial electoral battle.
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