Haryana BJP Urges Election Postponement Due to Holidays

The Haryana BJP has requested the Election Commission to postpone the October 1 Assembly polls. Citing consecutive holidays which may lower voter turnout, they believe a date after this holiday string would ensure better participation. The commission has acknowledged receipt of this request.

The Haryana unit of the ruling BJP has asked the Election Commission to briefly postpone the Assembly polls scheduled for October 1, citing a string of holidays that could reduce voter turnout.

A state BJP leader revealed on Saturday that the request has been sent by the party's state unit chief to the Election Commission. Haryana's Chief Electoral Officer, Pankaj Agarwal, confirmed on Friday that the communication has been forwarded to the commission.

Varinder Garg, a member of the BJP's state election management committee, explained the rationale for the request. The proposed election date is surrounded by holidays, including a weekend, which could lead to voters going on vacation and thereby reduce turnout. The BJP has suggested a new date post-holidays to ensure higher participation.

(With inputs from agencies.)