Lok Sabha Election 2024 Phase 2: Voting Underway in 88 Constituencies Across 13 States
Electoral Battle Intensifies as Nation Witnesses Key Contests Amidst Political Rivalry.
New Delhi, 26 April 2024: As the Lok Sabha Election 2024 progresses, the nation witnesses the fervor of democracy unfolding in its second phase, where 88 constituencies across 13 states and Union Territories cast their votes today. The electoral process, which commenced at 7 am, encompasses regions spanning from the serene landscapes of Kerala to the bustling streets of Uttar Pradesh and the historic locales of Rajasthan.
Initially slated to include 89 constituencies, the polling dynamics underwent a shift following the unfortunate demise of a candidate from Mayawati’s Bahujan Samaj Party in Betul, Madhya Pradesh. Consequently, the polling in Betul has been rescheduled to the third phase, scheduled for May 7.
In this phase, the political spectrum witnesses some of its prominent figures stepping into the electoral arena. From the Congress camp, stalwarts like Rahul Gandhi and Shashi Tharoor vie to maintain their foothold in Kerala’s Wayanad and Thiruvananthapuram constituencies, respectively. Meanwhile, BJP’s Hema Malini seeks a triumphant third term from Uttar Pradesh’s Mathura.
The electoral battleground is spread across a diverse array of states, with as many as 1202 candidates contesting for the 88 seats. Notably, a staggering 158.8 million eligible voters, including 32.8 million young voters and 3.4 million first-time voters, are set to exercise their franchise, underscoring the democratic essence of the nation.
The states and Union Territory hosting the electoral exercise in this leg include Kerala (20/20), Karnataka (14/28), Rajasthan (13/25), Uttar Pradesh (8/80), Maharashtra (8/48), Madhya Pradesh (6/29), Assam (5/14), Bihar (5/40), Chhattisgarh (3/11), West Bengal (3/42), Manipur (1/2), Tripura (1/2), and Jammu (1/5).
A keen focus of attention remains on states like Karnataka and Kerala, deemed pivotal for both the BJP and the Opposition. While the BJP endeavors to consolidate its presence in Karnataka, the Congress and its allies aim to fortify their stronghold in Kerala, eyeing a substantial victory to bolster the Opposition’s stance.
Amidst the electoral heat, the political discourse between the Congress and the BJP simmers with intensity. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent remarks on the Congress’s purported policies have triggered a fierce exchange of words, highlighting the underlying tensions characterizing this electoral season.
As the nation traverses through the democratic process, all eyes are set on the forthcoming phases of the election, each poised to unravel new dimensions of political dynamics. The next phase is scheduled for May 7, with the culmination of the electoral saga slated for June 1, followed by the eagerly anticipated counting of votes on June 4.
