The Election Commission of India (ECI) recently adjusted the Haryana Assembly election date after political parties and the All India Bishnoi Mahasabha requested a change. The original polling date of October 1 was shifted to October 5, due to the movement of the Bishnoi community to Rajasthan for the Asoj Amavasya festival.
Religion often plays a major role in Indian politics. In the last two-and-a-half years, the ECI has changed poll-related dates five times to accommodate religious festivals and events.
In 2022, the Punjab and Manipur elections saw date changes due to religious concerns. Punjab’s polls were moved from February 14 to February 20 to honor Guru Ravidass Jayanti, while Manipur’s elections were rescheduled to avoid Sunday church services.
In Rajasthan, the 2022 polling date was pushed from November 23 to November 25 to avoid a clash with Devuthani Ekadashi, a significant day in the Hindu calendar that marks the start of the wedding season.
The counting date for Mizoram’s 2023 elections was changed from December 3, a Sunday, to accommodate the religious practices of the Mizoram community.
In 2012, the Uttar Pradesh election date was also shifted due to uncertainty surrounding the Barawafat festival, resulting in a nationwide change to the counting date for several state elections.
Despite their efforts, the ECI cannot always meet every request for changes. An ECI official noted, “We try to consider every factor, but it’s not always feasible due to the vastness and diversity of the country.”
There have been instances where the ECI has not accommodated religious requests. In 2019, the ECI refused to change Tamil Nadu’s election date despite petitions to avoid conflicts with Maundy Thursday and the Chithirai festival. Similarly, requests from Muslim organizations in Kerala to change polling dates in 2024 due to Friday prayers were also declined.
