The election commission of India has shifted the polls in Punjab after it received requests from political parties for the same. Originally slated for February 14, the state will now go for voting on February 20.
As per the changes, the date of Notification is now January 25, while the last date of nomination is February 1. The date for withdrawal is now February 4 and the polling will take place on February 20. The counting of votes will be done on March 10.
In a statement, the ECI said, “Commission has received several representations from State Government, Political Parties and other organizations drawing attention regarding the movement of a large number of devotees from Punjab to Varanasi for participation in Sri Guru Ravidas Ji Jayanti celebrations, which is observed on 16th February 2022. They have also brought to the notice that a large number of devotees start moving for Varanasi around a week before the day of celebration and keeping the poll day on 14th February 2022 will deprive a large number of electors from voting.”
It added, “In view of this, they have requested to shift the poll date a few days after 16th February 2022. Commission has also taken inputs from State Government and Chief Electoral Officer, Punjab in this regard.”