EC to hold meeting today to finalise Assembly election schedule of 5 states

The Election Commission of India will hold an important meeting today (February 24) to finalise the schedule for Assembly polls to four states (West Bengal, Assam, Tamil Nadu, Kerala) and one Union Territory (Puducherry).  

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had hinted that the schedule for the Assembly elections could be announced in the first week of March. Many speculations were made after this indication. However, the Election Commission of India will hold a crucial meeting today (February 24) to finalise the schedule for Assembly polls to four states (West Bengal, Assam, Tamil Nadu, Kerala) and one Union Territory (Puducherry).

Meanwhile, Deputy Election Commissioner Sudip Jain will set foot in Kolkata on Thursday (February 25). He will hold a meeting with all district police superintendents and district governors and then submit a report to the Election Commission.
Meanwhile, the Election Commission will likely hold elections in Bengal in seven-eight phases. In 2016, elections were held in six phases from April 4- May 5.

On the other hand, the Election Commission said in a statement that before the Lok Sabha-Assembly elections, central forces are sent to various states and union territories. Central forces are deployed by identifying sensitive places or booths. Not only in West Bengal, but also in Kerala, Assam, Tamil Nadu and the Union Territory of Pondicherry.

Candidates for the election would also have to follow the protocols while officials inside polling booths will wear masks, face shields and gloves and use sanitiser on the premises.

Suspected COVID-19 patients will be allowed to cast their votes only after others finish exercising their franchise. A large section of government workers is reluctant to take part in elections due to the fear of COVID-19. Many have already written letters asking for their release. In this context, the Election Commission has taken strict action, saying that if somebody refuses to work for the elections, then they will be suspended from their jobs.