The Bharatiya Janata Party has reportedly begun preparing for the possibility of early Assembly elections in several states, with the upcoming Census exercise emerging as an unexpected factor influencing the electoral calendar.
The BJP units in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Goa and Uttarakhand have been asked to intensify their organisational efforts amid discussions that polls could be held ahead of schedule.
The primary concern is logistical rather than political. India's second phase of the Census, which will include both population and caste enumeration, is scheduled to begin in February 2027 and will require a massive deployment of government personnel.
Census manpower concerns driving the discussions
Both elections and Census operations rely heavily on the same workforce, particularly teachers, government employees and local administrative staff.
According to News 18, officials believe conducting both exercises simultaneously could create significant manpower shortages and operational bottlenecks.
As a result, policymakers are exploring whether advancing state elections by a few weeks or months could help avoid overlapping responsibilities.
Party insiders suggest the matter is being discussed seriously, although no formal decision has been announced.
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Uttar Pradesh remains BJP's biggest priority
Among the states being discussed, Uttar Pradesh carries the highest political stakes.
The BJP is aiming to secure a third consecutive term in the country's most populous state and believes its organisation is already in a strong position.
According to News 18, sources indicate that party workers have been asked to speed up preparations irrespective of whether elections happen on schedule or earlier than expected.
Goa and Punjab are also witnessing heightened political activity, while Uttarakhand leaders are reportedly more open to significantly advancing the polling timeline.
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Manipur remains an exception
Manipur presents a different scenario altogether.
Although the state is technically due for elections within a similar timeframe, the security situation remains volatile.
According to News 18, the lingering impact of the Kuki-Meitei conflict that erupted in 2023, combined with more recent tensions involving Kuki and Naga groups, has complicated the electoral roadmap.
As a result, authorities may choose to hold elections there separately at a later stage.
Political calculations are also at play
Beyond administrative concerns, there may be a strategic dimension to the discussions.
BJP leaders reportedly believe that the Congress has recently gained momentum following developments in states such as Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
Advancing elections could potentially limit the Opposition's preparation time in several battleground states.
Punjab has already seen speculation about early polls, with Aam Aadmi Party leader Arvind Kejriwal previously hinting at the possibility.
