🔊 Take a moment and listen

The Election Commission set the stage for a two-month-long electoral battle by announcing the commencement of Lok Sabha elections on April 19. The polls will unfold over seven phases, with results slated for declaration on June 4. With the announcement, the Model Code of Conduct, which restrains the incumbent government from making policy decisions, comes into immediate effect.

The electoral process will span April and May, with four states — Arunachal Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Sikkim — conducting simultaneous Assembly elections.

CEC Rajiv Kumar disclosed that the voting process will kick off on May 7 for 94 parliamentary constituencies across 12 states, followed by phase four on May 13, encompassing 96 constituencies across 10 states. Successive phases will see voting on various dates until June 1 across different states. Furthermore, 26 assembly constituencies await by-polls to synchronize with the respective regions’ parliamentary elections.

Here’s the schedule:

Phase 1: April 19
Phase 2: April 26
Phase 3: May 7
Phase 4: May 13
Phase 5: May 20
Phase 6: May 25
Phase 7: June 1

Key statistics reveal 96.8 crore electors, including 49.7 crore male and 47.1 crore female voters, 1.8 crore first-time voters, and 88.4 lakh PWD voters, among others.

The Commission emphasized creating a festive and peaceful voting atmosphere ahead of the 18th Lok Sabha elections. CEC Rajiv Kumar highlighted efforts to minimize repolls, campaign clutter, and misinformation while ensuring swift action against violations of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). Despite facing challenges such as muscle, money, misinformation, and MCC breaches, the Commission remains steadfast in its commitment to fair and transparent elections.

Also Read | Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Gyanesh Kumar appointed new Election Commissioners

To tackle the influx of illicit money, the ECI conducted extensive reviews with enforcement agencies, resulting in an 800% surge in cash seizures to Rs 3,400 crore during the 2022-23 election cycle compared to five years ago. Enforcement agencies are directed to crack down on illicit practices like the distribution of money, liquor, drugs, and freebies. At the same time, political parties are urged to maintain civility in their discourse and refrain from personal attacks.

The Narendra Modi-led NDA government eyes a rare third term, while the Opposition, grouped under the INDIA bloc, aims to challenge NDA’s dominance.

Be a part of Elets Collaborative Initiatives. Join Us for Upcoming Events and explore business opportunities. Like us on Facebook , connect with us on LinkedIn and follow us on Twitter, Instagram.