Chief Elections Commissioner Ayodhee Prasad Yadav has strictly ruled out change in date for the second phase of local level elections scheduled for June 14. “We are almost done with second phase poll preparations and we must stick to the proposed date,” said Yadav at an interaction in the Capital. “The government does have the authority to change the polling date, but if it is changed now, the EC wont’ be able to hold the elections,” he added. 

CEC Yadav’s statement comes amid concerns by some sections that budget presentation before the [second phase] of polls could have an impact on voting pattern. As per the constitution deadline, the government must present the fiscal budget on May 29-about two weeks ahead of second phase of polls. When asked about EC’s position on government leadership change, Yadav said the EC does not have any say. But as far as the budget is concerned, the election code of conduct needs to be followed,” he said.