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Key Points

The JD(U) has strongly advocated for single-phase elections in Bihar, claiming law and order issues are no longer a concern. Meanwhile, the RJD prefers a two-phase approach with enhanced security measures for marginalized communities. All parties want the election schedule to consider the Chhath festival timing to maximize voter turnout. The Election Commission is now evaluating these competing demands before finalizing the poll schedule.

Key Points: JD(U) Demands Single Phase Bihar Polls in ECI Meeting

  • JD(U) argues Bihar's improved law and order justifies single-phase polling like Maharashtra
  • RJD demands two-phase voting with special security for backward communities
  • Election dates should accommodate Chhath festival for migrant voter participation
  • BJP's burqa verification demand criticized as political maneuvering by opposition
2 min read

JD(U) demands one-phase polling in ECI meeting with 12 political parties in Patna

JD(U) seeks one-phase Bihar elections citing improved law and order, while RJD wants two phases with focus on security in backward caste villages ahead of Assembly polls.

"If elections can be held in one phase in Maharashtra, why not here? - Sanjay Jha, JD(U)"

Patna, Oct 4

The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Saturday held a crucial meeting with 12 recognised political parties in Patna ahead of the Bihar Assembly elections. Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar chaired the meeting and assured that all suggestions put forward by the parties would be considered before finalising the poll schedule. The ruling JD(U) sought Assembly polls to be held in a single phase.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, JD(U) working president Sanjay Jha, who represented the party, demanded that the Assembly polls be conducted in a single phase.

“We have thanked the Commission for successfully conducting the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter list. We have requested that the Bihar elections be held in one phase. Law and order and Naxalism are no longer issues in Bihar. If elections can be held in one phase in Maharashtra, why not here? Paramilitary forces should be deployed at all polling stations so that the poor face no difficulties in voting,” Jha said.

Jha also suggested that election dates should be fixed, keeping in mind the Chhath festival, so that people returning home for the festival can also cast their votes.

On the other hand, the RJD’s Aurangabad MP Abhay Kushwaha and the party’s election convener Chitranjan Gagan, who represented the party at the meeting, demanded that polling be conducted in two phases.

“We have asked the CEC to release the data of the 3.64 lakh voters deleted during the SIR process. We have also sought complete security arrangements in Dalit, Mahadalit, extremely backward and backward caste villages, so that these communities can vote freely. In the past, they were often prevented from voting,” Kushwaha said.

Responding to the BJP’s demand that women in burqas be verified by female officers, Kushwaha said: “A new voter list with photographs has already been published after the SIR. Despite this, if the BJP is making such demands, it is nothing but politics.”

The ECI’s consultations mark a significant step in finalising preparations for the high-stakes Bihar polls.

Political observers believe the Commission may announce election dates shortly, with voting likely to take place in multiple phases across the state.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Good point about Chhath festival timing! Many migrant workers return home during this time. Election Commission should definitely consider this while scheduling dates. Our traditions matter.
A
Abhishek O
RJD's concern about deleted voters is valid. Transparency is crucial in democracy. ECI should make the deletion data public to maintain trust in the electoral process.
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Sarah B
While I appreciate JD(U)'s one-phase demand, I'm concerned about security in remote areas. Multiple phases ensure better deployment of security forces. Safety first!
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Kavya N
All parties seem to be making reasonable demands. Hope ECI finds a balanced approach that ensures free and fair elections while considering practical constraints.
M
Michael C
The focus on ensuring marginalized communities can vote freely is commendable. Every vote should count equally in our democracy. Good to see these issues being raised.

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