Lok Sabha Elections Set for April 19 in Seven Phases, Results Out On June 4

Chief Election Commissioner Rajeev Kumar announced today that the 2024 general election for 543 Lok Sabha seats will be conducted in seven phases, starting from April 19. This marks the commencement of the largest democratic exercise globally. The results of the elections are slated to be disclosed on June 4.

Additionally, simultaneous elections for Lok Sabha and assembly will occur in four states: Sikkim, Odisha, Arunachal Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh. By-elections are also scheduled for 26 assembly seats across multiple states, including Bihar, Gujarat, Haryana, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Tamil Nadu.

Mr. Kumar emphasized the importance of combatting fake news on social media, urging political parties to ensure responsible behavior online by verifying information before amplifying it. He warned that fake news would be rigorously addressed according to existing laws, citing Section 79 (3)(B) of the IT Act, which empowers nodal officers in each state to remove unlawful content.

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2024 Lok Sabha Polls announcement: Here are the Important facts:

-97 crore registered voters will choose their Lok Sabha representative in the upcoming elections.

-10.5 lakh polling stations will be set up to hold the elections and 1.5 crore polling officials and security personnel will be deployed.

-Of these, 1.8 crore people are first-time voters and 19.74 crore voters are in the 20 to 29 age group.

-Ratio of women voters has increased to 948 for every 1000 male voters.

-The ratio was 928 women voters for every 1,000 male voters in 2019.

-1.5 crores polling officials and security staff, 55 lakhs EVMs, 4 lakhs vehicles will be deployed.

-For the first time in the history of Lok Sabha elections, voters above 85 years and persons with 40% disabilities can vote from home.

-Strict directions given to DMs & SPs to ensure level playing field.

-CAPF to be deployed adequately & assisted by Integrated control rooms in each district.

-Drone based checking at Borders.

Key Points:-

97 crore registered voters

Highlighting the magnitude of the event, the Election Commission revealed staggering figures, including 97 crore registered voters, 10.5 lakh polling stations, 1.5 crore polling officials and security personnel, 55 lakh Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), and 4 lakh vehicles to facilitate the electoral process.

Vote from home for voters above 85 years of age

In a groundbreaking move aimed at inclusivity, voters above 85 years of age and individuals with 40% disabilities will have the option to cast their votes from the comfort of their homes. Additionally, polling stations will be equipped with ramps and wheelchairs to facilitate accessibility for persons with disabilities.

Recognizing the challenges posed by factors such as muscle power, monetary influence, misinformation, and violations of the Model Code of Conduct, Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar emphasized the need for stringent measures to uphold the integrity of the electoral process. In the previous election cycle, cash seizures surged by over 800% to Rs 3,400 crore across 11 states, highlighting the growing concern over illicit activities during elections. Enforcement agencies have been instructed to crack down on illegal activities, including the distribution of cash, liquor, drugs, and other inducements.

No usage of foul language

As the electoral campaign kicks off, political parties have been urged to maintain civility and refrain from engaging in personal attacks or using foul language. The Election Commission remains committed to ensuring a level playing field for all parties and candidates, with Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) deployed adequately to maintain law and order. Integrated control rooms will be established in each district to coordinate and address any issues that may arise during the electoral process.

With the schedule for General Elections to the Odisha Legislative Assembly now released, all stakeholders are gearing up for what promises to be a historic exercise in democracy, reaffirming India’s commitment to free and fair elections.