Lok Sabha Elections 2024: As India prepares for the 18th Lok Sabha and Legislative Assembly elections across four states, the Election Commission of India (ECI) is primed to oversee the biggest festival of democracy the nation has witnessed. With Phase 1 commencing tomorrow, the Commission reaffirms its unwavering dedication to ensuring a free, fair, peaceful, accessible, participative, and inducement-free electoral process.
Over the past two years, the Commission, under the leadership of Chief Election Commissioner Shri Rajiv Kumar and Election Commissioners Shri Gyanesh Kumar and Shri Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, has meticulously prepared for the elections. Extensive consultations, reviews, field visits, and comprehensive training of officials have been conducted, alongside the development of new operating procedures and collaboration with a spectrum of agencies nationwide.
Phase 1 of the General Elections 2024, scheduled for April 19, will witness polling in 102 Parliamentary Constituencies across 21 States/Union Territories, alongside Assembly Constituencies in Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim. With over 16.63 crore voters expected to cast their votes across 1.87 lakh polling stations, preparations have been made to ensure a seamless voting experience.
Key highlights of Phase 1 include:
- Over 18 lakh polling officials ready to welcome voters.
- A total of 1625 candidates, including 134 females, contesting in the fray.
- Deployment of 41 helicopters, 84 special trains, and nearly 1 lakh vehicles for logistical support.
To ensure peace and purity in the electoral process, the Commission has implemented various measures:
- Adequate deployment of central forces at polling stations.
- Webcasting in over 50% of polling stations.
- Deployment of observers for vigilance.
Furthermore, the Commission has prioritized voter facilitation and support:
- Home voting facility for elderly and PwD voters.
- Model polling stations with local themes.
- Voter information slips and alternative identity documents for verification.
Media facilitation measures have also been implemented to ensure comprehensive coverage of the elections.
The Commission urges voters to exercise their democratic right responsibly and participate in the electoral process with pride. As the nation embarks on this historic journey, the ECI remains committed to upholding the principles of democracy and facilitating a smooth and transparent electoral process for all.
