Rise in Omicron cases: ECI unlikely postpone elections of five states
Elections will be held to five states, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Uttarakhand, Goa and Manipur early next year. Recently Allahabad High Court has suggested Election Commission of India reconsider postpone the polls following an increase in Omicron cases in the Country
New Delhi: The Elections Commission has ruled out postponing the elections of five states, due early next year. Recently the Allahabad High Court has advised the ECI to consider the postpone the elections due to Omicron fear.
The Election Commission is likely to stick to the schedule as per the constitutional mandate of conducting polls before the end of the term of assemblies, sources in ECI said.
Goa Assembly tenure will be expiring on March 15, Manipur Assembly tenure will be ended on March 19, UP Assembly term will end on May 14.
Following rice in Omicron cases, the Election Commission held a meeting with the Health Secretary over the upcoming polls.
The Election Commission sought details on vaccine coverage and omicron cases in the states that will go for elections.
The Election Commission also discussed the need for strict Covid protocol as Omicron casts a shadow on the poll process, ECI likely issue fresh guidelines to all five poll-bound states with regard to the elections process and campaign.
the Election Commission comprising of CEC Sushil Chandra and two ECs will be visiting Uttar Pradesh between December 28-30 to oversee poll preparations.
