The first phase of General Elections 2024 saw a remarkable turnout of voters across various states and union territories, despite the scorching heat wave. Citizens from diverse backgrounds participated enthusiastically, showcasing their civic responsibility and pride.

 

Preliminary reports indicate a voter turnout of over 60% across 21 states/UTs by 7 PM. Final figures are expected to rise as reports from all polling stations are compiled, with voting allowed until 6 PM and voters reaching polling stations until the end of polling hours permitted to cast their votes.

 

Polling was conducted peacefully in 10 states/UTs to elect members for the 18th Lok Sabha, along with polls for State Legislative Assemblies of Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. The Election Commission expressed gratitude to the voters and the entire election machinery for their active participation.

 

Notable instances include the historic participation of 56 villages in Bastar, Chhattisgarh, where villagers voted in their own village for the first time. In Maharashtra’s Gadchiroli-Chimur, the use of the local tribal dialect at polling booths facilitated voter engagement. In Bihar’s Bodh Gaya, Buddhist monks proudly displayed their inked fingers after casting their votes.

 

In Andaman and Nicobar Islands, tribal communities turned out in large numbers, with the Shompen tribe of Great Nicobar casting their votes for the first time. In Mizoram, an elderly couple reaffirmed their commitment to voting together, while an elderly woman in Arunachal Pradesh trekked to the polling station independently, despite having the option of home voting.

 

Despite facing heat waves and rain, voters across the country patiently exercised their franchise. The Election Commission’s Assured Minimum Facilities at polling stations provided crucial support to voters.

 

In the first phase of General Elections 2024, 102 Parliamentary Constituencies across 21 States/UTs participated. The Election Commission remains committed to ensuring a smooth, transparent, and inclusive electoral process in the upcoming phases.