Lok Sabha Elections 2024: India’s grand democratic spectacle, the Lok Sabha elections, has begun its journey with the first phase of voting across the nation. The Election Commission of India reported a significant voter turnout of almost 64% in this initial phase, covering 102 parliamentary constituencies spread over 21 states and Union Territories.
In a display of democratic fervor, Tripura emerged with the highest voter turnout, exceeding 80%, while Bihar witnessed a comparatively lower turnout, falling below 49%. However, the voting percentage is expected to rise as reports from all polling stations are compiled, given that polling continued until 6 PM in many constituencies.
As the political landscape heats up, major parties have ramped up their campaign efforts. Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed rallies in Karnataka, while Rahul Gandhi of the Congress Party scheduled appearances in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.
The electoral battlefield is set for a showdown between two formidable political alliances: the INDIA bloc and the Narendra Modi-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). With the NDA eyeing a third consecutive term, their slogan “abki baar 400 paar” reverberates, while the opposition INDIA bloc focuses on economic promises like MSP for farmers and cash handouts to women.
As the nation braces for the remaining phases of the election, here is the phase-wise schedule:
- Phase 1: April 19 (completed)
- Phase 2: April 26
- Phase 3: May 7
- Phase 4: May 13
- Phase 5: May 20
- Phase 6: May 25
- Phase 7: June 1
The anticipation mounts as the counting of votes and the declaration of results are slated for June 4, determining the course of India’s political landscape for the years to come.
