As the sun sets on the 18th Lok Sabha elections, India stands proud of its democratic achievement. Beginning on 19th April and spanning over seven phases, the General Election of 2024 has concluded successfully. The Election Commission of India (ECI) extends its profound gratitude to the voters, political parties, polling personnel, and everyone involved in this monumental exercise.
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A Celebration of Democracy
The massive voter turnout is a true reflection of India’s democratic ethos. Irrespective of caste, creed, religion, socio-economic, and educational backgrounds, voters came together to exercise their most cherished right. The real winner of these elections is undoubtedly the Indian voter.
Chief Election Commissioner Shri Rajiv Kumar, along with Election Commissioners Shri Gyanesh Kumar and Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, expressed their heartfelt thanks to the voters who braved various challenges to cast their votes. Their participation reaffirms the trust placed in them by the founders of the Indian Constitution, showcasing the strength and spirit of Indian democracy.
Gratitude to the Election Machinery
The ECI also extends its gratitude to the entire election machinery, including security forces, for their dedication in ensuring smooth, peaceful, and festive voting across the country. Their efforts in overcoming logistical challenges, managing law and order, and creating a conducive environment for voting are commendable.
Acknowledgment of Stakeholders
Political parties and candidates played a critical role in this democratic process. The ECI appreciates their cooperation and involvement. The media, too, is thanked for its vital contribution. The Commission regards the media as an ally in ensuring free and fair elections.
Inspiration from the Marginalized
Special recognition is given to the centenarians, elderly, persons with disabilities, and transgenders whose participation has been an inspiration. Their involvement underscores the inclusivity of the Indian electoral process, motivating younger generations to take democracy to even greater heights.
Polling Across the Nation
Polling in the seventh phase recorded an approximate turnout of 59.45% as of 8:45 PM. This final phase marked the end of the largest electoral exercise in the world, including elections for the State Legislative Assemblies of Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha. The voter turnout figures will continue to be updated on the ECI’s Voter Turnout App.
Noteworthy Highlights
In Jammu and Kashmir, a voter turnout of 58.58% was the highest in 35 years, with a significant increase in the Kashmir Valley. This reflects the credibility and fairness of the election process. Similarly, in Bastar, Chhattisgarh, areas affected by left-wing extremism saw unprecedented voter participation, underscoring the triumph of democracy over violence.
The high voter turnout in remote areas like Andaman and Nicobar Islands (64.10%) and Lakshadweep (84.16%) highlights the widespread trust in the electoral process. The introduction of the home-voting facility enabled those with physical limitations to participate, further enhancing the inclusivity of the elections.
Phase 7 Highlights
The seventh phase saw polling in eight states/UTs with a significant voter turnout. The approximate turnout figures at 11:45 PM are as follows:
- Bihar: 51.92%
- Chandigarh: 67.9%
- Himachal Pradesh: 69.67%
- Jharkhand: 70.66%
- Odisha: 70.67%
- Punjab: 58.33%
- Uttar Pradesh: 55.59%
- West Bengal: 73.36%
Looking Ahead
As the counting of votes for the Lok Sabha and various State Legislative Assemblies is scheduled for June 4th, 2024, the nation eagerly awaits the results. The robust planning and execution of these elections by the ECI demonstrate the strength of India’s democratic fabric.
In conclusion, the collective efforts of voters, political parties, candidates, election personnel, and security forces have once again showcased the strength and vibrancy of Indian democracy. The ECI extends its deepest gratitude to all involved in making this grand exercise a stellar success. As we await the results, one thing is clear: the wheels of democracy in India are spinning stronger than ever, driven by the will and participation of its people.
Source: PIB
