This announcement, made by the newly appointed election commissioners Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Sandhu...
Digital Desk: The much-anticipated Lok Sabha election 2024 will be held in seven phases beginning from April 19, with the counting slated for June 4. The phase 1 polling will be held on April 19, the second phase on April 26, third phase on May 7, fourth phase on May 13, 5th phase on May 20, 6th phase on May 25 and the last and the 7th phase on June 1.
This announcement, made by the newly appointed election commissioners Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Sandhu, comes amidst heightened political fervor across the nation.
A staggering 97 crore registered voters, including 47.1 crore women, are poised to exercise their democratic rights during this electoral spectacle. To facilitate seamless voting, 55 lakh Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) will be deployed, marking a significant logistical undertaking. Additionally, special provisions have been made for voters above 85 years and individuals with disabilities, allowing them to cast their ballots from the comfort of their homes—an initiative aimed at fostering inclusivity and accessibility in the electoral process.
Addressing the challenges of muscle power, monetary influence, misinformation, and Model Code of Conduct (MCC) violations, the Election Commission (EC) reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining electoral integrity. Measures such as drone-based surveillance at international borders and enhanced vigilance through a network of checkpoints underscore the EC's resolve to curb malpractices.
To combat the spread of misinformation, stringent actions under the IT Act will be enforced, with states authorized to request the removal of fake social media content. Furthermore, the EC plans to launch a dedicated 'Myth versus Reality' section on its website to debunk falsehoods and ensure informed decision-making among voters.
In light of past electoral misconduct, political parties have been reminded to adhere strictly to MCC guidelines, with a stern warning against inflammatory rhetoric. Efforts to mitigate the influence of money in politics include intensified scrutiny of financial transactions and crackdowns on the distribution of freebies.
Looking back at the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, where the NDA secured a resounding victory, the stage is set for a fiercely contested battle between the incumbent alliance and the newly formed opposition coalition, the INDIA bloc. With Prime Minister Narendra Modi setting ambitious targets for his party, the BJP, anticipation runs high for the electoral outcome.
Moreover, alongside the Lok Sabha polls, several states and union territories are gearing up for their assembly elections, adding another layer of complexity to the electoral landscape. Notably, the decision on simultaneous or separate elections in Jammu and Kashmir hinges on a comprehensive review of the security situation.
As the nation braces itself for yet another democratic exercise, the Lok Sabha election of 2024 promises to be a defining moment in India's political trajectory—a testament to the enduring spirit of democracy and civic engagement.
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