Election Campaigns Conclude in Assam, Kerala, and Puducherry Ahead of Polls
Campaigning Ends for Upcoming Assembly Elections
The election campaigns for the assembly elections in Assam, Kerala, and the Union Territory of Puducherry wrapped up this evening. Voting will take place in a single phase on Thursday, with 126 seats in Assam, 140 in Kerala, and 30 in Puducherry. Earlier today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a senior leader of the BJP, held public meetings in Barpeta, Hojai, and Dibrugarh in Assam. He expressed confidence that the BJP would secure a third consecutive term in the state, emphasizing that the development of every district and region is a top priority for his party and the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Modi noted that Assam has experienced peace and prosperity over the past decade.
Political Claims and Allegations
The ruling party in Assam has asserted that it has granted land ownership rights to tea garden workers, introduced empowerment schemes for women, provided financial assistance to girls, and achieved an 84% reduction in child marriages. BJP leaders have also claimed that a Uniform Civil Code will be implemented to curb polygamy in the state. In contrast, the opposition Congress and its allies have accused the BJP of engaging in divisive politics, widespread corruption, particularly targeting Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and his family, and failing to deliver justice for singer Jubin Garg.
Vibrant Campaigns in Puducherry and Kerala
In Puducherry, the election campaign was lively, with prominent leaders addressing rallies and public meetings across the Union Territory. Senior BJP leader Amit Shah, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, and DMK leader and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin were at the forefront of the vigorous campaigning throughout the day. Similarly, Kerala saw an equally vibrant campaign, with senior leaders from various political parties organizing meetings and roadshows across the state. The counting of votes for all four states and the Union Territory is scheduled for the 4th of next month.
Election Commission Regulations
The Election Commission has announced that exit polls for the five assembly elections taking place this month cannot be broadcast from 7 AM on April 9 until 6:30 PM on April 29. It has warned that conducting or broadcasting exit polls during this period would violate Section 126A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, which could result in imprisonment for up to two years, fines, or both. Elections in Kerala, Assam, and Puducherry will occur on April 9, while Tamil Nadu will hold its elections on April 23. West Bengal will conduct elections on April 23 and 29. Campaigning will cease at 6 PM on Tuesday in Kerala and Puducherry, and at 5 PM in Assam. Typically, voting occurs from 7 AM to 6 PM, although times may vary based on local conditions and security.