Assam Political Parties Advocate for Single-Phase Assembly Elections
The Election Commission of India revealed on Tuesday that a significant majority of political parties in Assam have formally urged the commission to organize the forthcoming state assembly elections in a single phase, or at most two phases. This request was accompanied by a strong recommendation to schedule the polling dates with careful consideration for the Rongali Bihu festival, a major cultural celebration in the region.
Chief Minister and BJP Support One-Phase Polls
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, representing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), stated emphatically, "The BJP has specifically requested for single-phase elections. Assam has moved beyond the shadow of militancy, and therefore, the polls can be efficiently and securely conducted in just one phase." This position underscores the party's confidence in the current law and order situation across the state.
Election Commission's Review Meeting in Guwahati
During a comprehensive two-day review visit to Guwahati, the full bench of the Election Commission, led by Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, held detailed discussions with representatives from a wide array of political parties. These included the BJP, Indian National Congress, All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF), Asom Gana Parishad (AGP), Communist Party of India (Marxist), Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), United People's Party Liberal (UPPL), and Bodoland People's Front (BPF).
Following these crucial interactions, the commission conducted an in-depth review with senior police and administrative officials. This session focused on critical aspects such as law and order maintenance, Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) management, logistical arrangements, training programs for polling staff, seizure operations, and comprehensive voter awareness campaigns.
Congress Raises Concerns Over Voter List Revision
However, the Congress party presented a contrasting perspective by submitting a formal memorandum to the Election Commission. The document alleged instances of harassment faced by citizens during the special revision process of the voter list, raising concerns about the integrity of the electoral roll.
Addressing the media after the meeting, Congress Member of Parliament Rakibul Hussain made further allegations. He claimed that the BJP desires the elections to be concluded before the Rongali Bihu festival. According to Hussain, this strategy aims to divert public attention away from the celebrations, particularly in the absence of the late renowned singer Zubeen Garg, who was a cultural icon associated with the festival.
The Election Commission is now tasked with balancing these diverse requests and allegations while ensuring a smooth, fair, and inclusive electoral process for the people of Assam. The final decision on the polling phases and dates will be announced after thorough consideration of all stakeholder inputs and ground realities.
