Jaipur: In a major decision, the Election Commission of India has revised the schedule of the upcoming assembly elections in Rajasthan. According to the new announcement, the voting date in Rajasthan has been shifted from 23rd November to 25th November, while the counting of votes and declaration of results will take place on 3rd December as per the earlier plan.
The reason behind this change is the coincidence of the original voting date with Dev Uthani Gyaras, a Hindu festival that marks the end of the four-month-long Chaturmas period. This festival is considered to be very auspicious for weddings and other ceremonies in Rajasthan. Thousands of marriages are held in Rajasthan on this day every year, and people travel from one place to another to attend them. This would have posed a challenge for the smooth conduct of the elections, as well as for the voters who would have to choose between exercising their franchise and participating in their family or social events.
The Election Commission said that it received several representations from various political parties, civil society groups, and individuals requesting to change the voting date in view of Dev Uthani Gyaras. After considering all the factors, the Commission decided to accept the request and modify the election schedule accordingly. The Commission also appealed to all the stakeholders to cooperate with the new arrangement and ensure a free, fair and peaceful election in Rajasthan.
