Peaceful Phase 2 Polling: 60.96% Voter Turnout Across 13 States/UTs in General Elections 2024

General Elections 2024: The second phase of General Elections 2024 commenced at 7 AM Yesterday across 88 Parliamentary Constituencies (PCs), drawing a spirited response from voters across 13 States/UTs. As of 7 PM, an approximate voter turnout of 60.96% has been recorded, reflecting the nation’s fervent engagement in the democratic process.

From newlyweds to senior citizens, tribals to IT professionals, Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), women, and youngsters, all were seen queuing up enthusiastically at their respective polling stations, despite challenging hot weather conditions. With the conclusion of phase 2, voting has been completed in 14 States/UTs for the General Elections 2024.

Under the vigilant supervision of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Shri Rajiv Kumar and Election Commissioners Shri Gyanesh Kumar and Shri Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, the polling process unfolded smoothly and peacefully across all States/UTs. Stringent security measures were implemented to maintain law and order, ensuring a conducive environment for voters to exercise their franchise without fear or intimidation. Over 1 lakh Polling Stations were webcasted to enhance transparency.

In Bihar, polling hours were extended until 6 PM at multiple stations in Banka, Madhepura, Khagaria, and Munger constituencies to accommodate voters amidst hot weather conditions. Special arrangements including shamianas, drinking water, medical kits, and fans were provided for voter convenience. Traditional attire added a festive touch to the “Chunav ka Parv” celebration, with polling officials and voters alike participating enthusiastically.

Innovative initiatives were undertaken to enhance accessibility and inclusivity in the electoral process. Notably, voters from 46 villages in Bastar and Kanker PCs in Chhattisgarh cast their votes in polling booths set up in their own villages for the first time in a Lok Sabha Election, with a total of 102 new polling stations established in these PCs.

The Election Commission’s special efforts to facilitate voting among Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs), elderly, young, first-time voters, women, and transgenders were evident throughout the polling process.

Celebrity participation added glamour to the electoral event, with cricketing legends Anil Kumble, Rahul Dravid, Javagal Srinath, and others casting their votes at different Polling Stations in Bangalore. Their gesture emphasized the importance of youth participation in the electoral process, encouraging citizens to exercise their democratic right diligently.