The seventh and final phase of polling for the Lok Sabha elections on June 1 saw a voter turnout of 40.09% till 1 pm, according to the Election Commission of India (ECI). This phase encompasses seven states and the Union Territory of Chandigarh, bringing a close to an extensive electoral process.
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High Voter Turnout in Himachal Pradesh
Himachal Pradesh led the states with a significant voter turnout of 48.63% till 1 pm. This high participation rate underscores the enthusiasm and commitment of voters in the region, highlighting their active role in the democratic process.
Voter Turnout Across Other States
The voter turnout in other states and the Union Territory is as follows:
- Bihar: 35.65%
- Chandigarh: 40.14%
- Jharkhand: 46.80%
- Odisha: 37.64%
- Punjab: 37.80%
- Uttar Pradesh: 39.31%
- West Bengal: 45.07%
These numbers reflect a robust engagement across various regions, indicating a strong participation in this crucial phase of the elections.
Details of the Final Phase
Polling began at 7 am in the last 57 parliamentary constituencies. The Election Commission reported that over 10.06 crore voters are expected to cast their ballots, comprising approximately 5.24 crore male, 4.82 crore female, and 3,574 third-gender electors. This broad and diverse voter base underscores the inclusivity of India’s electoral process.
Focus on Punjab and Himachal Pradesh
All 13 parliamentary constituencies in Punjab are voting in this final phase. Additionally, six assembly seats in Himachal Pradesh are also being contested today. The outcomes in these constituencies are particularly significant for the Congress government in Himachal Pradesh, especially since MLAs from these seats had cross-voted in the Rajya Sabha polls.
Odisha Legislative Assembly Elections
Odisha is also holding simultaneous elections for its State Legislative Assembly. Voting is underway for the remaining 42 Assembly Constituencies. This simultaneous polling for both the Lok Sabha and the state assembly is pivotal for the governance and political future of Odisha, impacting both state leadership and national representation.
Representational (Via. News18)
Ban on Exit Polls and Intense Campaigning
The Election Commission has imposed a ban on exit polls from 7 am on April 19 to 6:30 pm on June 1, ensuring the sanctity and impartiality of the voting process. Exit polls will be broadcast on various TV channels after voting concludes, providing early indications of potential outcomes.
Vigorous Campaigning by Political Leaders
The election campaign was marked by intense activity from major political figures. Prime Minister Narendra Modi held over 200 campaign events, including rallies and roadshows, over a span of 75 days, covering various regions to gather support for his party.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also conducted a dynamic campaign, holding more than 100 rallies and public engagements, including Nyay Sammelans and Nyay Manch, aimed at connecting with voters and promoting the party’s policies and vision.
Previous Phases of Polling
The first six phases of polling took place on April 19, April 26, May 7, May 13, May 20, and May 25. These phases saw significant voter engagement and set the stage for this concluding phase. Additionally, assembly elections were conducted in Andhra Pradesh, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh, with Odisha witnessing simultaneous polls for both Lok Sabha and the state assembly in the last four phases.
Via.Business Today
As India concludes its seven-phased Lok Sabha elections, the high voter turnout and vigorous campaigning highlight the vibrancy of the world’s largest democracy. The results of these elections will shape the country’s political landscape in the years to come, reflecting the collective will of over a billion people.
A lesser-known fact about India is that it is home to the world’s highest polling station. In the final phase of the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections, voters from this region will cast their ballots.
The meticulous planning and execution of this extensive electoral process underscore the strength of India’s democratic institutions. Stay tuned for the latest updates and detailed analyses as the final phase of polling concludes and exit polls begin to offer insights into the likely outcomes.
The conclusion of this election marks a pivotal moment for Indian democracy, as citizens eagerly await the results that will determine the nation’s future direction. The substantial voter turnout across diverse regions reflects the electorate’s engagement and the enduring spirit of democratic participation.
