New Delhi: The Election Commission announced on Wednesday the schedule for Assembly elections in five states. Politically crucial Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Uttarakhand, Goa and Manipur will go to polls between February 4 and March 8.
The polls are considered significant as their outcomes are likely to reflect the people’s verdict on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s demonetisation move implemented late last year. While UP will see polling in seven phases, it will be a one-day affair in Uttarakhand, Punjab and Goa; and a two-day exercise in Manipur.
“Counting of votes will be taken up together in all states on March 11,” the EC said. Making the announcement, CEC Nasim Zaidi said that the EC would keep a watch on the use of black money, which is expected to come down due to demonetisation. Steps will be taken to ensure that other illegal inducements are not used to influence voters, he said.
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“The model code of conduct will come into immediate effect, and will apply to political parties and state governments concerned, besides the Central government in terms of announcements in these states,” Mr Zaidi said.
