Elections in Maharashtra might be delayed until after Diwali, which is on November 2. The current administration’s term is set to end by November 26, necessitating the formation of a new government before then.
The Election Commission of India has set election dates for Jammu and Kashmir and Haryana, but Maharashtra’s schedule remains unclear. Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar cited security issues in Jammu and Kashmir as a reason for the delay in Maharashtra's election timetable. Additionally, the voter list update in Maharashtra has been hampered by the ongoing monsoon season. The state is also involved in significant cultural and religious events, including Ganesh Chaturthi, Pitru Paksha, and Diwali, which complicates the possibility of holding elections immediately.
Sources from the ruling party emphasize the need to observe major festivals like Janmashtami and Ganesh Chaturthi without disruption. They point out that Pitru Paksha, a period during which no auspicious activities are undertaken, follows these festivals. They suggest that since Navratri and Dussera precede Diwali, elections could be scheduled after the festive season ends. "The election campaign can commence from November 3, once the festivities conclude," they stated.
The Maharashtra Vikas Aghadi (MVA) has criticized both the government and the Election Commission for the delay. Opposition leader Vijay Wadettiwar highlighted the potential for elections in November and criticized the government for allegedly creating instability to benefit politically. He pointed to previous instances like the Ladki Bahin scheme introduced after an accident during the Lok Sabha elections as evidence of the government’s tactics.
Aaditya Thackeray also voiced his frustration on social media, questioning the Election Commission's decision to defer Maharashtra elections while proceeding with elections in Jammu and Kashmir. He criticized the notion of "one nation, one election" as being compromised by the Commission's decision.
Wadettiwar remains skeptical, asserting that the current political climate in Maharashtra is favorable to the MVA and suggesting that the delay is a strategic move to alter the political landscape.
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