Upcoming Assembly Elections in Jharkhand and Maharashtra
On October 15, the Election Commission announced the schedule for assembly elections in Jharkhand and Maharashtra. Jharkhand will have elections in two phases on November 13 and 20, while Maharashtra will hold a single-phase election on November 20. The counting of votes for both states will occur on November 23.
Details for Jharkhand Elections
Jharkhand has 2.60 crore eligible voters, with 1.31 crore male and 1.29 crore female voters. The state also has 11.84 lakh first-time voters and 66.84 lakh young voters. The elections will cover 81 constituencies, including 44 General, 9 SC, and 28 ST seats. The Gazette notifications for Jharkhand will be issued on October 18 and 22, with nominations closing on October 25 and 29. Scrutiny of nominations will occur on October 28 and 30, and candidates can withdraw by October 30 and November 1.
Maharashtra Election Details
Maharashtra’s election will involve 288 assembly seats. The Gazette notification will be issued on October 22, with nominations closing on October 29. Scrutiny will take place on October 30, and the last date for withdrawal is November 4. The main contenders are the ruling Mahayuti Alliance and the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi coalition.
Statements from Political Leaders
Jharkhand Congress president Keshav Mahto Kamlesh expressed readiness for the elections, while Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut predicted a change in Maharashtra’s government. NCP working president Praful Patel emphasized the importance of development and good governance in the elections.
Additional Election Announcements
The Chief Election Commissioner also announced bypolls for 48 assembly and two Lok Sabha seats. These include elections in Kerala, Uttarakhand, and Maharashtra, with votes counted on November 23.
Doubts Revealed
Jharkhand -: Jharkhand is a state in eastern India known for its rich mineral resources and diverse culture. It was formed in the year 2000, separating from Bihar.
Maharashtra -: Maharashtra is a state in western India, famous for its capital city Mumbai, which is the financial hub of the country. It is one of the most populous and economically significant states in India.
Assembly Elections -: Assembly elections are held to elect representatives to the state legislative assembly. These representatives make laws and decisions for the state.
Election Commission -: The Election Commission is an independent authority in India responsible for conducting free and fair elections. It ensures that elections are held smoothly and according to the rules.
Phases -: In elections, ‘phases’ refer to the different days on which voting takes place in various parts of a state. This is done to manage the election process efficiently and ensure security.
Bypolls -: Bypolls, or by-elections, are elections held to fill political offices that have become vacant between general elections. This can happen if a representative resigns or passes away.
Assembly Seats -: Assembly seats refer to the number of representatives that can be elected to the legislative assembly of a state. Maharashtra has 288 such seats, meaning 288 representatives will be elected.
Voters -: Voters are people who have the right to vote in elections. In Jharkhand, there are 2.60 crore voters, meaning 2.60 crore people can participate in the election process.