Lucknow, May 22 -- Political circles in Uttar Pradesh are abuzz with speculation that the state assembly elections may be advanced by a few weeks and conclude by the end of January 2027 instead of March.

The hinted reason is that the second phase of Census 2027 is scheduled for February 2027, and nearly the same official staff is deployed to conduct the polls and the Census. However, no authoritative information is available regarding the reason.

"There is a possibility of advancing the Uttar Pradesh assembly election by a few weeks. Instead of February-March 2027, the election may be held in December 2026-January 2027. We can't say anything authoritatively because this may be the prerogative of the Election Commission of India," said a...