Ten issues that will play important role in Gujarat Assembly pollsWith the upcoming Gujarat Assembly elections being held in two phases, as announced by the Election Commission of India, there are several factors that may play an important role in the voter's decision-making. From Morbi bridge collapse to the Bilkis Bano case, here are the ten main issues that are expected to have an influence over the upcoming Gujarat elections:(With inputs from PTI)
Ten issues that will play important role in Gujarat Assembly polls
The Modi factor | BJP has a trump card in the form of PM Modi, who was the Chief Minister of Gujarat from 2001 to 2014 but his sway over the state is still intact. Credit: PTI Photo
Remission of sentence of Bilkis Bano case convicts | The impact of the remission of sentences of those convicted in the Bilkis Bano gangrape and murder case will play out differently for the majority and minority communities. Muslims have been demanding justice for Bilkis Bano. Credit: AFP Photo
Anti-incumbency | People of Gujarat believe that inflation, unemployment, and basic issues concerning life have remained unresolved even after the 24-years of BJP rule, stated political observer Hari Desai. Credit: iStock Photo
Morbi bridge tragedy | The bridge collapse that claimed the lives of 135 people brought to the fore the nexus between the administration and rich businessmen. The issue is likely to dominate the minds of people when they vote. Credit: PTI Photo
Paper leaks and postponement of government recruitment exams | Frequent paper leaks and postponement of government recruitment exams have dashed the hopes of youths working hard to get government jobs, leading to much resentment among the citizens. Credit DH Photo
Agitated farmers | Farmers in several parts of the state have not been given compensation for crop loss due to the excess rains in the last two years, hence getting frustrated. Credit: Getty Images
Bad roads | In the last five to six years, the Gujarat government and municipal corporations have not been able to construct good roads or maintain old roads. Complaints of pothole-ridden roads are being raised all over the state. Credit: DH Photo
High electricity rates | Gujarat has one of the highest electricity tariffs in the country. People are looking forward to offers from the Aam Aadmi Party and the Congress of giving 300 units free per month. Credit: iStock Photo
Land acquisition | There is widespread dissatisfaction among farmers and landowners whose lands are being acquired for various government projects. Farmers, for instance, opposed land acquisition for the high-speed bullet train project between Ahmedabad and Mumbai. Credit: iStock Photo
Lack of basic education and health facilities in remote areas | The classrooms that are constructed in remote rural areas have a dearth of teachers. And if teachers are recruited, there is a lack of classrooms. Credit: DH Photo