Rajasthan Gears Up for Assembly Polls with Key Candidates in the Fray

Rajasthan Gears Up for Assembly Polls with Key Candidates in the Fray

Akif Wani | November 25, 2023 | 09:32 AM IST | Politics, Rajasthan | Follow on Google News

Rajasthan Gears Up for Assembly Polls with Key Candidates in the Fray

Rajasthan Gears Up for Assembly Polls with Key Candidates in the Fray

Rajasthan is set to conduct polls for 199 assembly seats on November 25, marking the culmination of intense campaigning by major political parties. The Congress government seeks reelection, while the BJP aims to establish its governance in the state.

Prominent Candidates and Electoral Dynamics

Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, former CM Vasundhara Raje, and former Deputy CM Sachin Pilot are among the notable candidates contesting the elections. Both BJP and Congress face internal challenges with around 45 rebel candidates from both parties contesting the polls.

Polling and Counting Schedule

Polling in 199 constituencies will occur from 7 am to 6 pm, with vote counting scheduled for December 3. The Karanpur constituency polling is postponed due to the demise of the Congress candidate. The state has implemented comprehensive security arrangements to ensure peaceful and fair elections, with a significant deployment of police and security forces across polling stations.

Issues and Campaign Focus

Key issues like violence against women, the paper leak scam, and farmers’ suicides have been highlighted by the BJP. In contrast, CM Gehlot is confident of breaking the state’s three-decade trend of alternating governments.

Star Campaigners and Party Promises

Both BJP and Congress have utilized star campaigners like Narendra Modi and Priyanka Gandhi to woo voters with promises addressing farmers’ welfare, employment, and infrastructure development.

Voter Demographics and Preparations

Over 5.26 crore voters, including a substantial number of young voters, will cast their votes in over 51,890 polling stations. The Chief Electoral Officer reported significant usage of postal ballots ahead of the polls.

Political Landscape and Past Election Results

In the 2018 elections, Congress secured 99 seats, forming the government with the support of BSP MLAs and independents, while BJP won 73 seats. This election will be a crucial test for both parties in the political landscape of Rajasthan.

Akif Wani