Election Commission to Announce Poll Schedule for Five States and UTs Today
In a significant development for Indian democracy, the Election Commission is expected to announce the schedule for assembly elections in five states and union territories today, according to reports from news agency ANI. The states and UTs in focus are West Bengal, Assam, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Puducherry, with the announcement coinciding with the deadline for filing appeals against the final electoral roll for West Bengal.
Key Details on Electoral Rolls and Phases
The final electoral roll for West Bengal was published on February 28, listing over 6.4 crore electors, and today marks the deadline for filing appeals against it. For Assam, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Puducherry, the window for filing appeals against final rolls has already closed. It is indicated that the upcoming elections will likely involve fewer phases than in 2021. In the previous cycle, West Bengal went to polls over eight phases, Assam over three, and Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Puducherry in a single phase.
Increased Deployment of Central Forces
To conduct elections over a shorter period, the Election Commission is expected to substantially increase the deployment of central forces, particularly in West Bengal. Reports suggest the total strength of central armed police forces (CAPFs) could surpass the 1,500 companies (around 1.4 lakh personnel) deployed for the 2024 Jammu & Kashmir assembly elections. About 500 companies (45,000 personnel) are already on advance deployment in West Bengal.
Polling Phases and Assembly Term Expiry
Multi-phase polling is expected in West Bengal and Assam, while Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Puducherry may vote in a single phase. With the term of the West Bengal assembly expiring on May 7, voting in the state is likely to stretch from April into early May, ensuring a smooth transition of power.
Adjudication of Doubtful Voter Cases
The Election Commission will also continue the adjudication of around 60 lakh ‘doubtful’ voter cases in West Bengal. These cases are handled by judicial officers appointed by the Calcutta High Court, with further appeals possible before tribunals. Supplementary voter lists incorporating approved cases will be published, as directed by the Chief Justice of the Calcutta High Court.
Appointment of Returning Officers
Meanwhile, the Election Commission has issued notifications for the appointment of returning officers for all 294 West Bengal constituencies, following the state government’s consent to provide officers of requisite seniority. The commission will closely monitor the deployment and randomisation of CAPF and state police personnel through special observers and CAPF nodal officers to ensure fair and secure elections.
