The Lok Sabha Election 2024 is witnessing the vibrant pulse of democracy as polling for Phase 2 unfolds across 88 constituencies spanning 13 states and union territories on Friday, April 26.
Key Highlights of Phase 2 Polling
1. Diverse Candidate Pool
As the nation heads to the polls, a whopping 1,202 candidates, comprising 1,098 males and 102 females, brace for the electoral battlefield. Among the electorate, there are 8.08 crore male voters, 7.8 crore female voters, and 5,929 third-gender electors, all poised to shape the destiny of the candidates.
2. Youthful Participation
The Election Commission of India reports an encouraging surge in first-time voters, with 34.8 lakh new voters eagerly stepping into the democratic fray.
3. Inclusive Voting Practices
In a laudable move towards inclusivity, over 14.78 lakh registered voters aged 85 years or above, 42,226 centenarians, and 14.7 lakh Persons with Disabilities (PwD) have been facilitated to cast their votes from the comfort of their residences during Phase 2.
4. Women Empowerment in Poll Management
Empowering women, more than 4,100 polling stations will be entirely managed by women, including security personnel. Additionally, over 640 polling stations will be operated by persons with disabilities (PwDs). Notably, except for Bihar and Kerala, all states and union territories boast polling stations with fewer than 1000 average electors per station, ensuring accessibility and efficiency.
5. Intriguing Electoral Battles
In the heart of the electoral drama, significant contests unfold, capturing the nation’s attention. Congress stalwart Rahul Gandhi embarks on a re-election bid, facing off against Annie Raja of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) in Kerala’s Wayanad constituency. Meanwhile, the BJP, eyeing a breakthrough in Kerala, fields its state president K Surendran. In another riveting face-off, former Union minister Shashi Tharoor of Congress locks horns with BJP’s Rajeev Chandrasekhar and CPI’s Pannyan Raveendran. Elsewhere, Karnataka’s political landscape sees sitting Congress MP DK Suresh challenged by BJP’s Cholenahalli Nanjappa Manjunath, setting the stage for a compelling showdown.
Lok Sabha Election 2024: 88 Seats, Kerala Highest
Kerala emerges as a pivotal battleground, boasting the highest number of constituencies with all 20 seats up for grabs. Following closely behind is Karnataka, with 14 seats in contention. The electoral canvas extends across Assam, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, West Bengal, Tripura, Manipur, and Jammu, where the parliamentary seat will witness electoral fervor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the total number of candidates contesting in Phase 2?
A total of 1,202 candidates, including 1,098 males and 102 females, are vying for victory in Phase 2 of the Lok Sabha Election 2024.
2. How many first-time voters are expected to participate in Phase 2 polling?
The Election Commission of India anticipates the participation of approximately 34.8 lakh first-time voters in Phase 2.
3. Are special arrangements made for elderly and differently-abled voters?
Yes, over 14.78 lakh registered voters aged 85 years or above, 42,226 centenarians, and 14.7 lakh Persons with Disabilities (PwD) have been enabled to vote from their residences in Phase 2.
4. Who will manage the polling stations during Phase 2?
More than 4,100 polling stations will be exclusively managed by women, including security staff, while over 640 stations will be operated by persons with disabilities (PwDs).
5. Which states have polling stations with fewer than 1000 average electors per station?
All states and union territories, except Bihar and Kerala, boast polling stations with fewer than 1000 average electors per station, ensuring efficient and accessible voting.
6. What are the notable electoral contests in Phase 2?
Key battles include Rahul Gandhi versus Annie Raja in Wayanad, Shashi Tharoor versus Rajeev Chandrasekhar in Kerala, and DK Suresh versus Cholenahalli Nanjappa Manjunath in Karnataka, among others.
Conclusion
Phase 2 of the Lok Sabha Election 2024 showcases the vibrancy of Indian democracy, with diverse candidates, enthusiastic youth participation, inclusive voting practices, and compelling electoral battles shaping the nation’s political landscape. As the electorate exercises its constitutional right, the electoral saga unfolds, heralding a new chapter in India’s democratic journey.