Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Phase 1 Ended

KAKALI DAS

In the ongoing Indian election season, the first phase of voting took place on April 19^th, with 1.60 million citizens exercising their franchise across 102 constituencies.

While the majority of areas experienced typical voting procedures, certain states witnessed instances of violence, such as vandalism and EVM destruction, notably in Manipur.

However, amidst these challenges, there were heartening tales, including a remarkable 102-year-old woman participating in the electoral process and Election Commission officials resorting to innovative methods like employing mules to establish polling booths. This blend of experiences paints a comprehensive picture of democracy in action in the world’s largest democracy.

In India, the world’s largest democratic exercise commenced with elections spanning 28 states, 8 union territories, and 543 constituencies, involving approximately a billion eligible voters, over a span of 6 weeks.

The first phase of voting, covering 21 states and 102 constituencies, saw a staggering 160 million people eligible to cast their ballots. By 5:00 PM, an impressive nearly 60% voter turnout was reported across the scheduled dates.

As political leaders, spearheaded by Prime Minister Modi, and various parties encourage citizens to exercise their democratic right, voters made their way to the ballot box.

“Today, the first phase of elections is taking place. This is a big day for the festival of democracy. I want to appeal to all the voters to use their rights and caste their votes” – PM Modi.

On the first phase, the spotlight was on major states like Tamil Nadu, where all 39 constituencies witnessed voting.

For the ruling BJP or Bharatiya Janata Party, this election serves as a litmus test as they strive to expand their influence in the South, with Tamil Nadu being a crucial battleground. Simultaneously, the ruling DMK is vying to replicate its 2019 success and secure another sweeping victory in the state.

Among the major states that participated in the first phase of voting were Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Assam, and Manipur.

In the state of Assam, voting took place in five out of a total of 14 constituencies during the first phase of the Lok Sabha elections. Kaziranga, Sonitpur, Lakhimpur, Dibrugarh, and Jorhat were the constituencies in Assam where people exercised their right to vote.

In the north-eastern state of Manipur, despite reported incidents of violence in recent months, voter turnout reached 68%. However, the day was marred by several incidents of firing and vandalism, along with reports of booth capturing and destruction of electronic voting machines (EVMs).

“I am delighted today that the first phase of elections is being held and I can caste my vote. We have to make PM Modi the Prime Minister for the third time.” – Biren Singh, Chief Minister of Manipur

Beyond mere statistics and instances of violence, India’s elections embody the essence of its diverse electorate – the 968 million individuals who queue up to exercise their democratic rights.

From the world’s shortest woman to a newlywed couple in Jammu and Kashmir, from a 102-year-old woman in Tamil Nadu to an ancient tribe in the Andaman Islands, citizens from all walks of life participated in the first phase, showcasing the breadth and depth of democratic engagement across the nation.

India’s Election Commission emphasizes that every vote carries weight, going beyond mere rhetoric. They are going to great lengths to ensure that every citizen can exercise their democratic right.

The first phase of voting in India marks the beginning of a series of elections, with six more phases yet to come. In the days ahead, 434 additional constituencies will go to polls. The voting process will conclude on June 1^st, with the results scheduled for announcement on June 4^th.

In the 2019 elections, the BJP-led NDA coalition clinched a resounding victory, securing 353 seats, while the Congress and its allies managed just 91 seats. This time around, the BJP is setting its sights even higher, aiming for 400 seats.

Meanwhile, the opposition alliance in India is striving to impede the ruling BJP’s momentum, although prevailing trends suggest this is an uphill battle. If the BJP emerges victorious, it would mark a historic third term for Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

20-04-2024

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