Chandigarh: The Election Commission on Saturday deferred the voting date of the assembly polls in Haryana. The polling will now be held on October 5, instead of October 1, which will be held in a single phase. The top poll body also shifted the date of counting votes for the assembly polls in Haryana to October 8.
The notification issued by ECI reads, "Subsequently, representations have been received from national and state political parties and all India Bishnoi Mahasabha regarding mass movement of people of Bishnoi community of Haryana to Rajasthan to participate in centuries-old Asoj Amavasya festival celebration. It may deny voting rights to a large number of people and may lead to reduce voters’ participation in the general election to legislative assembly of Haryana."
The ECI's decision comes in recognition of the Bishnoi community's cultural and religious practices. The Bishnoi community, known for its deep-rooted traditions, observes the Asoj Amavasya festival in honour of Guru Jambheshwar. This festival, which holds significant religious importance, was initially coinciding with the original polling date.
Haryana has scheduled its assembly elections for October 5, moving the date from the originally planned October 1. The model code of conduct is now in effect in the state, with the current assembly term set to conclude on November 3.
The decision to reschedule came after concerns raised by Haryana's BJP unit and the Indian National Lok Dal about potential low voter turnout due to holidays surrounding the initial election date. Both parties requested the Election Commission of India to delay the elections by a few days to address these concerns.