Should BJP Urge SEC to Reconsider Local Body Poll Postponement?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
As the local body elections approach, the BJP is pressing the SEC to rethink its decision on postponement. This urgent appeal raises significant questions about electoral processes and fairness in Maharashtra's governance. Discover the implications of this political move as the countdown to voting day begins!
Key Takeaways
- BJP urges SEC to reconsider its election postponement decision.
- The revised schedule affects 24 chief and 204 member positions.
- Ravindra Chavan raises concerns about last-minute changes.
- Legal references include Maharashtra Municipalities Election Rules.
- The party emphasizes the importance of voter access and electoral integrity.
Mumbai, Dec 1 (NationPress) As election campaigning for the nagar parishads and nagar panchayats is set to conclude at 10:00 PM tonight, with voting slated for December 2, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has called on the State Election Commission to reassess the updated election timetable released on November 29.
The modified schedule mandates a re-election for roughly 24 positions of Nagar Parishad heads and 204 member posts across various Nagar Parishads and Nagar Panchayats statewide.
Ravindra Chavan, the State BJP leader, has raised concerns in his correspondence to the SEC, critiquing the broad application of this directive. He argues that postponing elections at the last minute, just a day shy of polling, is highly inappropriate.
Chavan pointed out several flaws in the SEC’s November 29 announcement.
“In areas such as Wardha District, the party claims that all appeal resolutions were concluded prior to the allocation of election symbols and the release of Form-7. The BJP maintains that the November 29 order should not extend to these instances,” stated Chavan.
He emphasized that if a court ruling regarding an appeal does not alter the number of candidates, their symbols, or names, or if a candidate whose nomination was validated by the court submits an affidavit to withdraw, the Election Returning Officer should proceed with the election as per the originally announced schedule.
Chavan referenced Rule 17 (1) of the Maharashtra Municipalities Election Rules, 1966, which indicates that the list of candidates is adjusted based on appeal outcomes from the District Court against scrutiny decisions, with the election process continuing according to established regulations.
“The BJP insists that elections where the process was finalized following an appeal decision—aligned with Annexure-1, point 6(b) of the SEC’s November 4, 2025, order—should be recognized as valid. This applies to scenarios where the appeal ruling was finalized by November 25, 2025, and the Form-7 and symbol allocations were completed on November 26, 2025,” he elaborated.
He further noted discrepancies between the SEC's directives from November 4 and November 29.
“The SEC must promptly issue new guidelines for cases where appeal decisions were rendered after November 26, 2025, and for candidates that provide personal affidavits for withdrawal. These considerations are crucial to avoid postponing elections, ensuring that all voters across the state can exercise their right to vote,” concluded Chavan.
Point of View
The ongoing developments surrounding the BJP's appeal to the SEC reflect significant electoral tensions within Maharashtra. As the party calls for a reconsideration of the election schedule, it highlights the crucial balance between political maneuvering and the integrity of the democratic process. Ensuring voter access and fairness remains paramount as the state navigates these challenges.
NationPress
01/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the BJP's main concern regarding the election schedule?
The BJP is concerned that the State Election Commission's decision to postpone elections just before polling undermines the electoral process and voter rights.
How many positions are affected by the revised election schedule?
The revised schedule impacts approximately 24 Nagar Parishad chief positions and 204 member posts across various Nagar Parishads and Nagar Panchayats.
What legal basis does the BJP cite in its appeal?
The BJP references Rule 17 (1) of the Maharashtra Municipalities Election Rules, 1966, which states that the list of candidates is amended based on appeal decisions.
Why does the BJP believe the November 29 order should not apply to certain cases?
The BJP argues that in instances where appeal decisions were finalized before symbol allotments, the November 29 order should not be applied.
What is the BJP's request to the SEC?
The BJP requests the SEC to issue revised directives that consider appeal outcomes and allow elections to proceed without postponement.
