The decision was taken because the term of the two Assemblies is till June 2, which means elections have to be wrapped up on or before that date…reports Asian Lite News
The Election Commission on Sunday changed the date of counting of votes in the Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim assembly polls from June 4 to June 2.
The decision was taken because the term of the two Assemblies is till June 2, which means elections have to be wrapped up on or before that date, said the EC, in a press release.
“EC is to conduct election to Legislative Assemblies of Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim before the cessation of their terms, in exercise of the powers conferred upon under Article 324 read with Article 172(1) of the Constitution of India and Section 15 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951. The term of house of both the Legislative Assemblies of Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim is due to expire on 02.06.2024,” the EC in its press release stated further.
The date of counting of votes was changed from June 4 to June 2 and the date before which the election shall be completed was changed from June 6 to June 2 as well. The two states go to polls on April 19.
“There shall be no change in respect of Schedule for Parliamentary Constituencies of Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim,” the EC said. Counting for the Lok Sabha seats, and Andhra Pradesh and Odisha Assembly polls will be held on June 4. The term of the Lok Sabha is till June 16.
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu had earlier welcomed the announcement of simultaneous elections to two Lok Sabha seats and the 60-member Assembly in the state on April 19, saying that it is a great opportunity for the citizens to actively engage in shaping the nation’s future.
As per the election schedule announced by Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar in Delhi on Saturday, the Assembly elections and polling for the two Lok Sabha seats in Arunachal will be held on April 19. The counting of votes for both the Lok Sabha and Assembly elections will be taken up on June 4.
The five-year term of the Arunachal Assembly ends on June 2.
After the announcement of the election schedule by the CEC, Chief Minister Khandu posted on X: “I heartily welcome the announcement of Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha poll schedule by the ECI. It is a great opportunity for the citizens to actively engage in shaping the nation’s future.”
“Elections underscore the essence of democratic principles, where every individual’s voice holds significance in the collective decision-making process. As citizens, we must participate (in the elections) thoughtfully, ensuring that our choices reflect our aspirations for a better and more inclusive India.
“With the announcement of Lok Sabha and Assembly polls, we embrace the democratic spirit that unites us as a nation and reaffirm our commitment to the ideals of freedom, equality, and progress,” the Chief Minister added. (ANI/IANS)
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