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Lok Sabha elections 2024: India readies for second phase of polling; over 16 crore voters expected to cast ballots
KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)
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Summary
Spread across 88 parliamentary constituencies in 13 states and union territories, this phase expects around 16 crore voters to exercise their franchise across 1.67 lakh polling stations.
The Election Commission of India is fully prepared for the second phase of polling for Lok Sabha elections 2024, scheduled for Friday, April 26. Spread across 88 parliamentary constituencies in 13 states and union territories, this phase expects around 16 crore voters to exercise their franchise across 1.67 lakh polling stations, the poll body said on Thursday.
Weather conditions are predicted to be normal, ensuring a comfortable voting experience for citizens. To accommodate voters amidst hot weather conditions, polling time has been extended until 6 PM in several constituencies in Bihar, including Banka, Madhepura, Khagaria, and Munger.
As per the poll body, over 16 lakh polling officials are ready to welcome voters, who include 8.08 crore male, 7.8 crore female, and 5,929 third-gender electors. A significant number of first-time voters, totaling 34.8 lakh, and young voters aged 20-29, totaling 3.28 crore, are expected to participate.
In this phase, there are 1,202 candidates, including 1,098 males, 102 females, and 2 third-gender candidates. Notably, over 14.78 lakh registered voters are above 85 years old, with 42,226 being above 100 years old. Moreover, there are 14.7 lakh Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) who have been given the option to vote from their homes.
To ensure smooth polling, 3 helicopters, 4 special trains, and nearly 80,000 vehicles have been deployed. Webcasting will cover over 50% of polling stations, with micro-observers stationed at all polling booths.
To prevent voter inducement, 4,553 Flying Squads, 5,731 Static Surveillance Teams, 1,462 Video Surveillance Teams, and 844 Video Viewing Teams are keeping a close watch. Additionally, 1,237 inter-state and 263 international border check posts are vigilant against illicit activities.
Voter facilitation measures have been enhanced, with special attention given to the elderly and persons with disabilities. Assured minimum facilities like water, shade, toilets, ramps, and wheelchairs are provided at all polling stations.
In a remarkable move, more than 4,195 model polling stations are being set up, each reflecting a unique local theme. Moreover, over 4,100 polling stations will be managed entirely by women, including security staff, while over 640 polling stations will be managed by Persons with Disabilities (PwDs).
The Election Commission has distributed Voter Information Slips to all registered voters, along with providing alternative documents for identity verification at polling stations.
Notably, polling for 102 seats in phase 1 was completed on 19th April. Remaining 5 phases of polls will continue June 1, with counting of votes scheduled on June 4.
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