The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced a change in the voting date for the Haryana Assembly Election. The poll, originally scheduled for October 1st, will now be held on October 5th. This decision was made in consideration of the Asoj Amavasya festival, a significant event for the Bishnoi community in the region.
The ECI stated that thousands of Bishnoi families residing in Haryana’s Sirsa, Fatehabad, and Hisar districts would travel to Rajasthan on October 2nd to participate in the festival, potentially hindering their ability to vote on the original date. Recognizing the importance of both voting rights and cultural observances, the ECI shifted the voting date to ensure the Bishnoi community could participate in the festival without being deprived of their democratic right.
The change in the voting date also addresses concerns regarding a potential six-day holiday period, which could have led to reduced voter turnout. The revised schedule ensures that the election takes place after the holiday season, allowing for a more favorable environment for participation.
Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini welcomed the ECI’s decision, stating that his party had raised concerns about the potential impact of the consecutive holidays on voter turnout. The ECI’s response demonstrates a commitment to ensuring that all eligible voters have the opportunity to participate in the democratic process.
The revised schedule for the Haryana Assembly Election will see voting take place on October 5th, with the counting of votes for both Haryana and Jammu and Kashmir scheduled for October 8th.
