English
Patna, Sept 9: Election Commission on Wednesday announced a five phase election to the Bihar assembly beginning from October 12. The second phase of elections will be on October 16, third phase will be on October 28. Fourth round will be conducted on November 1, whereas, the final phase is scheduled on November 5. The counting of votes is on November 8, 2015.
“67 of the total 243 assembly constituencies in Bihar as ‘sensitive’ from candidates’ expenditure point. The threat of muscle of power has significantly decreased in comparison to previous elections. The paramilitary forces have assessed that 47 assembly seats could be affected left-wing extremists. EC has assured that Central Reserve Police Force personnel will be deployed to conduct the polling in a smooth manner in the suspected areas,” said Chief Election Commissioner Nasim Zaidi.
“EC has ensured assessment of all vulnerable points where anti social elements have been recognised. The commission will adopt a measure of zero-tolerance. The model code of conduct has been enforced with immediate effect. We hope all political parties will comply with it,” he added.
Formulating the poll schedule was a tedious task for the Election Commission, since the months of October and November are loaded with festivals, which are vigorously celebrated in Northern India. The list of festivities includes Dussehra, Lakhsmi Puja, Diwali, Chatt and Kali Puja. Last assembly elections in 2010 was also held in October-November, and was conducted in six phases.
The electoral battle has already escalated between the grand coalition of Congress, JD(U) and RJD contesting against BJP-led NDA alliance. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, spearheading the BJP campaign, had addressed four mahaparivartan rallies and announced a collective package of 1.65 lakh crores in an attempt to lure voters ahead of the legislative elections.
Similarly, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has also announced a slew of measures lately to appeal to his vote banks. The agitating Nishad community demanding inclusion in the Scheduled Caste (SC) category were allotted Scheduled Tribe (ST)status on Saturday, in order to win their support ahead of the polls. Similarly, the JD(U) government also sanctioned subsidy for state-registered Madrasa teachers on Monday.
With the election dates officially announced, model code of conduct has been enforced which restricts any official decision which may could influence voters.
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