Assembly Elections 2023: In an exciting turn of events, the Election Commission has sounded the bugle for impending elections across five states – Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Mizoram, and Telangana. With the Model Code of Conduct in the spotlight, political parties are gearing up for a fierce battle to win the hearts and votes of the people.
Election Commission’s Strategic Meeting
The Election Commission recently convened a critical meeting with observers to discuss the forthcoming elections. The primary agenda was to strategize the effective implementation of the Model Code of Conduct for the Loktantra Abhiyan. The goal is to ensure that the model code is adhered to rigorously, fostering transparency in the electoral process.
States in Focus
The Commission diligently reviewed the preparations for elections in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Mizoram. Simultaneously, the spotlight shone on Telangana’s election preparedness. It’s expected that the poll panel will announce the election dates for these five states in the coming days, with November-December being the probable timeline. Notably, the term of the Mizoram Assembly concludes on December 17, while Telangana, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh’s assemblies will wrap up their terms in January 2024.
The Political Landscape
With the battle lines drawn, political parties have kicked off their campaigns with fervor, vying for public support. Beyond the rallies and speeches, leaders have entered a realm of allegations and counter-allegations, setting the stage for an intense electoral showdown.
PM Modi’s Rajasthan Visit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a significant mark in Rajasthan, inaugurating projects worth a staggering 5,000 crores. He also flagged off two new train services in the state, emphasizing the government’s commitment to infrastructure development.
Combatting Money Power
In a pivotal announcement, Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, speaking in Hyderabad, asserted the Election Commission’s unwavering commitment to conducting free, fair, transparent, and temptation-free elections. Kumar emphasized the vigilant monitoring of money power during the upcoming assembly elections. Stringent instructions have been issued to enforcement agencies to crack down on any misuse of election funds. Kumar, leading a 17-member team, held extensive discussions with political parties, state, and central government officials, as well as enforcement agencies, to ensure the integrity of the electoral process.
Monitoring Transactions and Violations
The Election Commission revealed plans to establish 148 checkposts in Telangana alone during the assembly elections. These will include 35 checkposts along the Tamil Nadu-Andhra Pradesh border, 26 along the Telangana-Karnataka border, 24 along the Telangana-Maharashtra border, and 4 along the Telangana-Chhattisgarh border. Moreover, all online transactions will be closely monitored. To ensure transparency and swift action, reports of Model Code of Conduct violations will be accessible via the cVIGIL mobile app, with responses promised within 100 minutes.
Inclusivity in Voting
A groundbreaking development in this election is the opportunity for citizens aged over 80 to vote from the comfort of their homes, a first in these five states. Additionally, individuals with disabilities, specifically those with 40 percent or higher disability, will also have the option to cast their votes from their residences.
With elections looming on the horizon, these five states are set for a rollercoaster of political activity. Campaigns, vigilance against money power, and innovative voting options promise to make this electoral season one for the history books. Stay tuned as we bring you the latest updates on this exciting journey towards democracy in action.