HOUSE TERMS AND POLL SCHEDULES

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Context

• The Election Commission of India moved up the vote counting date for Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh to June 2, aligning with the imminent expiry of their Legislative Assemblies' terms.

Constitutional Terms of State Assemblies and Lok Sabha:

• According to the Constitution, both state Assemblies and Lok Sabha serve terms of five years from their first sitting, as outlined in Article 172(1) and Article 83(2) respectively.
• This term can be extended in the case of a Proclamation of Emergency, but not beyond six months after the end of the emergency.

House Terms:

• State Assemblies: As per Article 172(1) of the Constitution, the Legislative Assembly of every state serves a term of five years from the date of its first meeting unless dissolved sooner.
• Lok Sabha (House of the People): Article 83(2) stipulates that the Lok Sabha continues for five years from the date of its first meeting unless dissolved earlier.

Election Scheduling Factors:

• Constitutional Mandates: The Election Commission adheres to constitutional provisions regarding the duration of legislative terms.
• Logistics and Resources: Factors such as weather conditions, festivals, major examinations, and availability of venues and personnel are considered.
• Historical and Geographical Considerations: The ECI evaluates the historical and geographical context of the region, including logistical requirements like deploying security forces.
• Term Expiry Date: The primary consideration is the expiry date of the current House term, which is known in advance and forms the basis for scheduling elections.
• Completion Timing: The ECI aims to conclude the election process at least one day before the end of the House term, ensuring results are declared in advance to facilitate procedural formalities.

Election Schedule Implementation:

• The Election Commission finalizes the election schedule, taking into account the aforementioned factors.
• Poll dates, including the start of polling and vote counting, are announced well in advance.
• The schedule is communicated to relevant stakeholders, including political parties, government officials, and the public.

Application to Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim Assemblies:

• The Assemblies of Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim commenced their terms on June 3, 2019, meaning their tenure concludes on June 2, 2024.
• Consequently, vote counting and result announcements are scheduled before midnight on June 2, allowing the Governors to initiate the formation of new Assemblies.

PRACTICE QUESTION Q. Which of the following factors is NOT considered by the Election Commission of India (ECI) while scheduling elections? A) Constitutional Mandates B) Historical and Geographical Considerations C) Economic Factors D) Completion Timing Answer C)