Summarize

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The BJP in Haryana has requested a change in polling dates, citing concerns that the current schedule, falling between a weekend and national holidays, may lead to a lower voter turnout.
Opposition parties, including Congress and AAP, have criticized this move, suggesting it's a sign of the BJP's fear of defeat.
The BJP, however, insists it's ready for elections and is merely seeking to avoid a long holiday period that could impact voter participation.

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The BJP had proposed a delay in the October 1 polls due to extended holidays

After criticism for Haryana poll postponement request, Anil Vij's clarification

By Chanshimla Varah

Aug 25, 2024

06:10 pm

What's the story

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has clarified its readiness to participate in the upcoming Haryana Assembly elections after requesting a change in the polling date. Senior BJP leader and former Haryana Home Minister Anil Vij confirmed this stance following criticism from opposition parties. The BJP had proposed a delay in the October 1 polls due to extended holidays around the election date, which could potentially impact voter turnout.

Candidate selection

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"Congress has reacted today, but we are not just asking for an extension. We suggest moving the dates back by a few days to prevent a long holiday period. We are ready for elections. Our party is ready. Have it tomorrow," Vij told reporters. With October 1 being a Tuesday and a polling day, and October 2 being a national holiday for Gandhi Jayanti, many people may leave the city after taking the day off on Monday, September 30.

Political reactions

Opposition parties react to BJP's request for poll date change

After Mohanlal Badoli and Abhay Chautala wrote to the Election Commission, expressing concern that voters might be away, Congress accused the BJP of seeking a postponement for fear of losing. "Sensing defeat, the ruling party is presenting flimsy arguments...because it has no issues, no achievements to highlight, and insufficient candidates to field," Congress leader Bhupinder Singh Hooda claimed. Meanwhile, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) suggested that if the BJP had effectively governed the state, it would not be seeking a postponement.

Election challenges

BJP highlights potential impact of holidays on voter turnout

Varinder Garg, a member of the BJP's state election management committee, explained that the Assembly election date is sandwiched between a weekend and additional holidays. While Badoli pointed out that Punjab's election dates were postponed in 2022 due to Ravidas Jayanti. Observers believe the BJP's fears over turnout stem from the fact that urban voters, where the party has a strong base, are more inclined to travel during the extended weekend.