Lok Sabha 2024: The initial round of voting for the 2024 general election encompassed 102 Lok Sabha seats across 21 states and UTs, witnessing a promising turnout of 63.5% (as of 11 pm).
Despite challenges, such as in the Naxal-affected Bastar region and West Bengal, where violence was limited, the process remained largely smooth and peaceful.
Manipur experienced some disturbances yet achieved a turnout of 70.8%. Compared to the 2019 elections, where the overall turnout for these seats was 66%, some constituencies like Assam and Udhampur in J&K have undergone delimitation. Despite adverse weather conditions and subdued campaigning, citizens across the nation turned out in significant numbers. The Election Commission’s efforts to ensure a peaceful election were reflected positively in the turnout, with expectations of further increases.
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Notably, regions like West Bengal, Tripura, and Sikkim, known for past electoral tensions, saw high turnouts with minimal incidents. Despite security concerns, areas like Bastar and Manipur demonstrated resilience, emphasizing the commitment to democratic participation. However, some states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar maintained their historically lower turnouts.
The diverse anecdotes of civic engagement, from tribal communities in Andaman and Nicobar to elderly couples in Mizoram, highlight the vibrancy of the democratic process. With the conclusion of the first phase, voting has concluded for 10 states/UTs in the Lok Sabha elections, alongside assembly polls in Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh, which achieved turnout rates of 68% and 66% respectively.