The Election Commission today announced poll dates for four states and one union territory that go to polls in April-May, 2016. While elections will be held in two phases in Assam, West Bengal will vote in six phases. Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry will have a single phase.
Around 17 crore voters will cast their vote in assembly elections in these five states, according to Nasim Zaidi, Chief Election Commissioner.
The model code of conduct for the election comes to effect immediately in the states.
The elections will begin on April 4 in Assam and counting in all the five states will be held on May 19. The second phase of polling in Assam will be on April 11.
While Puducherry, Kerala and Tamil Nadu will cast vote on 16th May, West Bengal will exercise its franchise in six phases: April 4, April 11, April 17, April 21, April 25 and May 5.
The EC also announced a slew of features, some of which will be introduced for the first time.
Photographs of all candidates will be present on the EVMs to eliminate confusion for voters
A symbol for NOTA has also been introduced for the first time.
Special ramps will be constructed outside polling booths for physically challenged.
Separate polling booths for women will also be set up.