The Election Commission has announced election dates for Jammu and Kashmir and Haryana. However, there has been no announcement for Maharashtra, which was expected. The Election Commission said that holding elections in four places at the same time could be challenging due to security concerns and the ongoing monsoon season in Maharashtra, as well as upcoming festivals.
Sharad Pawar, leader of the NCP, criticized the central government for this decision. He pointed out that while Prime Minister Modi advocates for “One Nation, One Election,” the Commission has only announced elections for two states. Pawar questioned why elections are not being held simultaneously in all four states where elections are due.
Congress leader Pawan Khera also criticized the announcement. He noted that Prime Minister Modi spoke about “One Nation, One Election” on August 15 but is only able to organize elections in two states at a time. Khera expressed confusion over why elections are not being held together in all four states and stated that the Congress is ready and confident of winning by addressing people’s issues.