Uttarakhand Local Body Elections: Campaigning Ends, Voting on January 23 The noise of campaigning for the local body elections in Uttarakhand has finally come to a halt. On the last day, all political parties gave their best to ensure victory for their candidates. Voting on January 23 Voting for 100 municipal bodies is scheduled for January 23. A total of 5,405 candidates are in the fray, trying their luck. Around 30.29 lakh voters will exercise their right to vote and elect the “mini government.” This time, voting will be conducted through ballot papers. Notably, the State Election Commission has also included the NOTA (None of the Above) option in the ballot papers. 72 Candidates Contesting for Mayor’s Position Once the voting concludes on January 23, the fate of 5,405 candidates will be sealed in the ballot boxes. For the mayor’s position in 11 municipal corporations, 72 candidates are in the race. Additionally, 445 candidates are contesting for the position of chairperson in 89 municipalities and municipal councils, while 4,888 candidates are vying for councilor and ward member positions across all local bodies.
Advertising Permitted in Media Rahul Goyal, Secretary of the State Election Commission, stated that under the Model Code of Conduct, advertisements that were previously being aired in print or electronic media can continue, provided they do not influence election results, promote or harm the chances of candidates or political parties, or have any adverse impact. Only those advertisements that appeal to voters to cast their votes and comply with all rules of the Model Code of Conduct will be allowed in print media. In electronic media, no interviews, meetings, or debates related to the election may be aired by candidates, political parties, or any other individuals. Awaiting Results Post-Voting All eyes are now on the voting scheduled for January 23. The decision of the voters will determine who will govern the local bodies.
