LOGIN
Monday, July 8, 2024
Top Posts
SUBSCRIBE NEWSLETTERS
Home India Parliament
Category:

India Parliament

BlogFeaturedIndiaIndia Parliament

Parliament Set for Showdown Over NEET-UG Paper Leak Allegations

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

New Delhi, June 29, 2024 — Parliament is set for a stormy session today as both houses, Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha, reconvene to address pressing national issues, with the alleged NEET-UG paper leak expected to dominate the discussions.

The proceedings of both houses were adjourned on Friday following a tumultuous session marked by the Opposition INDIA bloc’s vociferous demands for a dedicated debate on the NEET-UG issue. The adjournment came as members protested and insisted on prioritizing the discussion on the alleged irregularities in the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test-Undergraduate (NEET-UG).

NEET-UG Controversy: The Core of the Debate

Conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on May 5, the NEET-UG 2024 saw around 24 lakh candidates appear for the examination. The results, announced on June 4, have been mired in controversy with allegations of question paper leaks and other significant irregularities surfacing soon after. The scandal has sparked outrage among students, parents, and political leaders alike, leading to demands for a thorough investigation and accountability.

Today’s Proceedings

When Parliament reconvenes at 11 am today, the NEET-UG issue is expected to take center stage. Opposition members from the INDIA bloc have been persistent in their calls for an extensive debate, underscoring the importance of maintaining the integrity of the nation’s education system.

In the Lok Sabha, BJP MP Anurag Thakur is slated to initiate the debate on the Motion of Thanks on the President’s Address. This session is particularly noteworthy as it marks the first sitting of Parliament following the constitution of the 18th Lok Sabha. Thakur’s speech is anticipated to cover a range of topics, but the NEET-UG controversy is likely to be a focal point, given the current public and political climate.

Background and Implications

The NEET-UG examination is a critical gateway for students aspiring to pursue undergraduate medical courses across India. The integrity of such an examination is paramount, and any compromise can have far-reaching implications on students’ futures and the credibility of the educational institutions involved.

The alleged leaks and irregularities have raised serious concerns about the examination’s conduct and the measures in place to prevent such breaches. The Opposition’s insistence on a dedicated discussion reflects the urgency of addressing these concerns to restore public confidence in the system.

What to Expect

Today’s session is likely to be charged with intense debates and demands for action. The Opposition is expected to press for specific details about the investigation into the NEET-UG irregularities, accountability measures, and steps to prevent future occurrences.

The ruling party, on the other hand, will aim to navigate the discussion while highlighting the government’s broader achievements and plans as outlined in the President’s Address. The debate on the Motion of Thanks will provide a platform for both sides to present their perspectives and for the government to respond to the allegations.

Conclusion

As Parliament gears up for what promises to be a crucial session, all eyes will be on how the NEET-UG issue is addressed. The outcome of today’s discussions could have significant implications for the education sector and the political landscape.

Stay tuned for live updates and in-depth coverage of the Parliament session as the nation’s lawmakers deliberate on this critical issue.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
BlogFeaturedIndiaIndia Parliament

Parliament Session Highlights: Both Houses Adjourned for the Day

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

In a significant session of the Indian Parliament, President Droupadi Murmu addressed a joint sitting on Thursday, marking her first presidential address since the BJP-led NDA government secured a third consecutive term. During her speech, President Murmu launched a pointed critique of the Emergency imposed by the Congress government in 1975, labeling it the “biggest” and “darkest” chapter in the history of India’s democracy, a direct assault on the Constitution.

Key Issues Addressed

President Murmu also touched upon contemporary concerns, notably the alleged irregularities in the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test-Undergraduate (NEET UG-2024). She assured the Parliament that the ongoing Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the NEET paper leak case would ensure accountability and transparency.

Following the President’s address, a motion of thanks was proposed in both Houses of Parliament, setting the stage for subsequent discussions among lawmakers. This session marks the commencement of the first meeting of the 18th Lok Sabha, with the Rajya Sabha session starting on the same day.

Election of Lok Sabha Speaker

In a significant development on Wednesday, Om Birla was re-elected as the Speaker of the Lok Sabha. Prime Minister Narendra Modi moved the motion in the House, and Birla emerged victorious against the Opposition’s candidate, Congress MP Kodikkunil Suresh, through a voice vote. This marks the second consecutive term for Birla as Speaker, reflecting the NDA’s continued dominance in the lower house.

Congratulatory Messages and Vision for the 18th Lok Sabha

Post-election, Speaker Birla received congratulations from key political figures, including Prime Minister Modi and Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi, along with various leaders from both the NDA and the opposition. In his address, Birla emphasized the need for a new vision and resolve for the 18th Lok Sabha. He called for the House to become a center of creative thinking and new ideas, aiming to uphold high standards of parliamentary traditions and dignity. Birla underscored the importance of working towards the goal of a developed India, or Viksit Bharat.

Commemoration of Emergency Anniversary

Marking the 50th anniversary of the Emergency imposed on June 26, 1975, Speaker Birla praised the resilience and determination of those who opposed the Emergency and fought to protect India’s democracy. His remarks served as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding democratic principles and the rule of law.

Adjournment of Both Houses

After a day filled with significant addresses and discussions, both Houses of Parliament were adjourned for the day. The session highlighted crucial issues, set the tone for future legislative debates, and reinforced the commitment to democratic values and accountability.

As the 18th Lok Sabha embarks on its journey, the focus will remain on fostering innovative ideas, maintaining parliamentary decorum, and addressing the pressing concerns of the nation.

0 comment
1 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
BlogFeaturedIndiaIndia Parliament

PM Modi, Rahul Gandhi Shake Hands as They Welcome New Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

In a significant moment of unity, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who is set to assume the role of Leader of the Opposition, shook hands today in the Parliament as they together welcomed the newly re-elected Lok Sabha Speaker, Om Birla. This gesture marked a fresh chapter in the 18th Lok Sabha.

The Election of Om Birla

The election results were declared by Pro-tem Speaker Bhartruhari Mahtab after the Opposition, which had put forward Congress MP K Suresh as its candidate, chose not to push for a vote on the motion. This led to a smooth re-election for Om Birla, who will now serve as the Lok Sabha Speaker for a second term.

Following the announcement, Prime Minister Modi, accompanied by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju and Rahul Gandhi, approached Om Birla’s seat in the front row of the treasury benches to escort him to the Speaker’s chair.

Congratulatory Messages

In his congratulatory message, Prime Minister Modi expressed his confidence in Birla’s leadership, saying, “It is a matter of honour that you have been elected to this chair for the second time. I congratulate you on behalf of the entire House and look forward to your guidance for the next five years. Your sweet smile keeps the entire House happy.”

Rahul Gandhi, representing the Opposition and the INDIA alliance, also extended his congratulations, emphasizing the importance of the Speaker’s role in parliamentary democracy. “You are the final arbiter of people’s voice. The government may have political power, but the Opposition also represents the voice of the people. The Opposition would like to assist you in your work, and I am confident you will allow us to speak in the House,” Gandhi said.

The Role of the Leader of the Opposition

The role of the Leader of the Opposition in India dates back to 1969 when Ram Suhag Singh first held the post. Since then, it has evolved to become a cornerstone of parliamentary democracy. The Leader of the Opposition plays a key part in the appointment of key officials such as the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), the Central Vigilance Commissioner (CVC), and members of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), and the Lokayukta. This role ensures a check and balance within the government, holding it accountable to the public.

A New Chapter in Parliamentary Democracy

As the 18th Lok Sabha begins its journey, the collaborative spirit shown by Prime Minister Modi and Rahul Gandhi in welcoming Speaker Om Birla signifies a hopeful start. Their handshake and mutual respect underscore the potential for constructive dialogue and cooperation, crucial for addressing the nation’s challenges and advancing its democratic processes. The coming years will test this unity and the effectiveness of the new leadership roles, shaping the future of India’s parliamentary democracy.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
BlogFeaturedIndia ParliamentWorld Parliament

Newly Elected MPs of 18th Lok Sabha Take Oath on Inaugural Session’s First Day

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

New Delhi: The first session of the 18th Lok Sabha began today with the oath-taking of several newly elected Members of Parliament. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who leads the Lok Sabha, was the first to take the oath, administered by Pro-tem Speaker Bhartruhari Mahtab. Following Mr. Modi, the panel of chairpersons appointed to assist Mr. Mahtab in managing the Lok Sabha proceedings until the election of the Speaker took their oaths. BJP MPs Radha Mohan Singh and Faggan Singh Kulaste were among those who took the oath, while Congress MP K Suresh, DMK MP TR Balu, and Sudip Bandyopadhyay of TMC did not participate in the proceedings.

Subsequently, several Union Ministers, including Rajnath Singh, Amit Shah, Nitin Gadkari, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Manohar Lal, Piyush Goyal, Jitanram Manjhi, Rajiv Ranjan (Lallan Singh), Dr. Virendra Kumar, Kiren Rijiju, Chirag Paswan, Jyotiraditya Scindia, and Annapurna Devi, took their oaths as Lok Sabha members. Union Ministers H.D. Kumaraswamy and Pralhad Joshi took their oaths in Kannada, Dharmendra Pradhan and Jual Oram in Odia, Sarbananda Sonowal in Assamese, K. Ram Mohan Naidu and G. Kishan Reddy in Telugu, C.R. Patil in Gujarati, Prataprao Jadhav in Marathi, Dr. Jitendra Singh in Dogri, Suresh Gopi in Malayalam, Sukanta Majumdar in Bengali, and Durgadas Uikey in Sanskrit.

After the Union Ministers, other MPs took their oaths in alphabetical order based on their states and union territories. From Assam, notable figures such as Gaurav Gogoi and Rakibul Hussain of Congress, and Bijuli Kalita Medhi of BJP took their oaths. Bihar’s new MPs included Lovely Anand, Devesh Chandra Thakur (JDU), Janardan Singh Sigriwal, Rajiv Pratap Rudy, Ravi Shankar Prasad (BJP), Misa Bharti (RJD), and Tariq Anwar (Congress). Congress MP Manish Tewari from Chandigarh also took the oath.

Newly elected MPs from Delhi, including Bansuri Swaraj and Manoj Tiwari, took their oaths, as did prominent figures from Himachal Pradesh, such as former Union Minister Anurag Thakur and actress Kangana Ranaut. Other notable oath-takers included BJP MPs Parshottam Rupala from Gujarat, Naveen Jindal from Haryana, and Deepender Singh Hooda from Congress.

Former Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai and MPs from Madhya Pradesh and other states also took their oaths. The oath-taking ceremony will continue tomorrow to accommodate all newly elected members.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
BlogIndia ParliamentWorld Parliament

18th Lok Sabha: New Parliament Session Begins June 24, PM Modi to Address Both Houses

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

New Delhi: The first session of the 18th Lok Sabha will commence tomorrow with the oath-taking and affirmation of newly elected members. Senior BJP MP Bhartruhari Mahtab, the appointed Protem Speaker, will administer the oaths. The election for the new Lok Sabha Speaker is scheduled for June 26, followed by President Droupadi Murmu’s address to a joint sitting of both Houses on June 27. The Rajya Sabha session will also begin on June 27. The Parliament session is set to conclude on July 3.

PM Modi to Address Parliament

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the Lok Sabha on July 2 in response to the President’s address, followed by a speech in the Rajya Sabha on July 3. During this period, there will be no Zero Hour or Question Hour.

Lok Sabha Speaker Election

President Droupadi Murmu has appointed BJP MP Bhartruhari Mahtab as Protem Speaker, as announced by Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on June 20. Alongside, Suresh Kodikunnil, Thalikkottai Rajuthevar Baalu, Radha Mohan Singh, Faggan Singh Kulaste, and Sudip Bandyopadhyay have been appointed to assist the Protem Speaker until the election of the new Speaker.

The first session of the 18th Lok Sabha will commence on June 24, during which newly elected members will be sworn in. The election for the Lok Sabha Speaker is scheduled for June 26.

Sources indicated that the top position in the Lower House is likely to go to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), while the Deputy Speaker role may be assigned to an NDA ally. The I.N.D.I.A bloc has requested the Deputy Speaker post, traditionally held by the Opposition, though the 17th Lok Sabha did not have an MP in this office.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
BlogIndia ParliamentPoliticsWorldWorld Parliament

Narendra Modi Sworn in as Prime Minister of India for Third Term; New Council of Ministers Takes Oath

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

New Delhi : Shri. Narendra Modi was sworn in today as the Prime Minister of India for the third consecutive term. President Droupadi Murmu administered the Oath of Office and Secrecy to Mr. Modi, along with the new Council of Ministers, at a ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhawan. During the swearing-in ceremony, 31 Cabinet Ministers, five Ministers of State (Independent Charge), and 36 Ministers of State took the oath.

Senior BJP leaders Rajnath Singh, Amit Shah, Nitin Gadkari, Dr. S. Jaishankar, Piyush Goyal, Dharmendra Pradhan, Nirmala Sitharaman, and BJP President J.P. Nadda were sworn in as Cabinet Ministers. Other senior party leaders, including Kiren Rijiju, Pralhad Joshi, Giriraj Singh, Ashwini Vaishnaw, Jyotiraditya Scindia, Bhupender Yadav, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Annapurna Devi, Hardeep Singh Puri, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, G. Kishan Reddy, C.R. Patil, Dr. Virendra Kumar, and Jual Oram, also took the oath as Cabinet Ministers. Former Chief Ministers Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Manohar Lal, and Sarbananda Sonowal were among those administered the oath as Cabinet Ministers. Additionally, former Karnataka Chief Minister and JD(S) MP H.D. Kumaraswamy, former Bihar Chief Minister and HAM party chief Jiten Ram Manjhi, JD(U) MP Rajiv Ranjan Singh, TDP MP Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, and LJP (Ram Vilas) Chief Chirag Paswan were sworn in as Cabinet Ministers. BJP leaders Rao Inderjit Singh, Dr. Jitendra Singh, Arjun Ram Meghwal, Prataprao Jadhav of Shiv Sena, and RLD Chief Jayant Chaudhary took the oath as Ministers of State (Independent Charge).

During the ceremony, 36 Ministers of State also took the oath. They include BJP MPs Jitin Prasada, Shripad Yesso Naik, Pankaj Chaudhary, Nityanand Rai, Krishan Pal, V. Somanna, S.P. Singh Baghel, Shobha Karandlaje, Suresh Gopi, Raksha Khadse, Ajay Tamta, Bandi Sanjay Kumar, Kamlesh Paswan, Harsh Malhotra, Satish Dubey, and Ravneet Singh Bittu. Also sworn in were RPI’s Ramdas Athawale, Ramnath Thakur of JD(U), Anupriya Patel of Apna Dal (S), and TDP’s Dr. Pemmasani Chandrasekhar.

Several leaders from neighboring countries and the Indian Ocean region attended the swearing-in ceremony, including Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe, Maldivian President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, Seychelles Vice-President Ahmed Afif, Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Mauritian Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, Nepali Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda,’ and Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay.

Notable dignitaries present at the event included Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Chief Justice of India Dr. D.Y. Chandrachud, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, Bihar Chief Minister and JD(U) president Nitish Kumar, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister-designate N. Chandrababu Naidu, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. Celebrities such as actors Rajnikanth, Shah Rukh Khan, Akshay Kumar, Vikrant Massey, filmmaker Rajkumar Hirani, and business tycoons Mukesh Ambani and Gautam Adani also attended the event.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
BlogFeaturedIndiaIndia ParliamentLok Sabha Elections

Lok Sabha Election Results 2024: Factors Behind BJP’s Underwhelming Performance

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

As the counting for the Lok Sabha Elections 2024 continues, it has become evident that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is struggling to secure a majority on its own. The INDIA bloc, a coalition of opposition parties formed to challenge the BJP, has gained significant ground, leading in 228 seats — a stark contrast to the exit polls that predicted less than 200 seats for them. In 2019, the BJP had secured a robust 303 seats independently, while the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) amassed 353 seats. Here are five critical factors that appear to have contributed to the BJP’s faltering performance this time around:

1. The Uttar Pradesh Shocker

One of the most unexpected developments has been in Uttar Pradesh, a crucial state for the BJP, where the INDIA bloc has won 40 of the 80 seats. This is a significant drop from 2019, when the BJP captured 62 seats in the state. The BJP’s campaign strategy heavily relied on large rallies featuring Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and Union Home Minister Amit Shah. In contrast, Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra adopted a grassroots approach, camping in Rae Bareli and Amethi, focusing on small, community-based meetings rather than grandiose rallies.

Political analysts have noted that the BJP’s decision to repeat many of its incumbent MPs, unlike its strategy in Delhi where it replaced all but six sitting MPs, might have contributed to voter fatigue and dissatisfaction.

2. Ram Mandir Campaign

The construction of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya was a cornerstone of the BJP’s campaign, expected to galvanize support. However, the issue did not seem to resonate with the voters as anticipated. This is exemplified by the BJP trailing in the Faizabad constituency, which encompasses Ayodhya. In neighboring constituencies, the BJP is leading in only two out of seven seats. The Congress is leading in Amethi and Barabanki, while the Samajwadi Party (SP) is ahead in Sultanpur, Ambedkarnagar, and Basti. Both Congress and SP are part of the INDIA bloc.

3. The Agnipath Scheme

The Agnipath scheme, aimed at recruiting soldiers, has faced severe criticism, particularly from Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. This scheme appears to have negatively impacted the BJP’s performance, especially in Rajasthan and Haryana, states that contribute significantly to the defense and paramilitary forces. In Haryana, where the BJP swept all ten seats in 2019, the party is now leading in only five, with the Congress ahead in the other five. Similarly, in Rajasthan, the BJP+ alliance, which had won all 25 seats in 2019, is leading in just 14, with Congress ahead in eight.

4. Splits in Maharashtra

In Maharashtra, the BJP has encountered setbacks, leading in only 12 seats compared to the 23 seats it won in 2019. The Congress is leading in 11 seats, while the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Thackeray faction), an INDIA bloc partner, is leading in ten seats. The Eknath Shinde faction of Shiv Sena, aligned with the BJP, is leading in six seats. The split within Shiv Sena in 2022 and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) in 2023 has seemingly confused and disillusioned voters. Delays in announcing NDA candidates and ongoing Maratha agitations for reservations in education and government jobs have also played a role in the BJP’s diminished performance.

5. Turncoats

Several Congress members who switched allegiance to the BJP have not fared well in the elections. In Punjab, Ravneet Bittu and Preneet Kaur, both Congress defectors, are trailing. Similarly, in Haryana, Ashok Tanwar, who joined the BJP just before the elections, is also trailing in the Sirsa constituency. These defections seem to have backfired, with voters possibly perceiving them as opportunistic rather than genuine representatives of change.

Conclusion

The 2024 Lok Sabha elections have revealed significant challenges for the BJP, from strategic missteps in key states like Uttar Pradesh to the repercussions of controversial policies such as the Agnipath scheme. Additionally, internal splits within allied parties in Maharashtra and the poor performance of turncoat candidates have further dented the BJP’s prospects. As the results continue to roll in, it is clear that the party will need to undertake a thorough introspection and recalibrate its strategies to regain its footing in Indian politics.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
BlogLok Sabha ElectionsPolitics

BJP’s Ambitious Target of 400 Lok Sabha Seats Appears Within Reach, Exit Polls Suggest

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

New Delhi: Throughout the election season, the BJP held firm on its ambitious target of 400 Lok Sabha seats for the NDA, rallying behind the slogan ‘ab ki baar 400 paar’ despite the opposition’s relentless mockery. If three exit polls are accurate, the ruling party might have the last laugh.

Two polls have predicted ranges with figures just over 400 on the higher end, while News 24-Today’s Chanakya has forecasted a precise tally of 400 for the NDA. This number comes with a margin of error of 15 seats, indicating a potential range of 385 to 415 seats. India TV-CNX has projected a range of 371-401 seats, and India Today-Axis My India has estimated 361-401 seats.

However, it’s crucial to note that exit polls can often be incorrect.

In 2019, the NDA secured 352 seats, with the BJP winning 303 on its own. If Prime Minister Narendra Modi secures a third consecutive term, it would be historic, showcasing the party and alliance’s election prowess if the NDA reaches even the lower end of these predictions.

A tally of 361, the minimum figure predicted by India Today-Axis My India, would mean the alliance has improved its performance in each successive election, signaling minimal anti-incumbency and highlighting PM Narendra Modi’s enduring popularity.

The opposition INDIA Alliance, which claimed on Saturday that it will win 295 constituencies, has been projected to win 107 (plus-minus 11) by Today’s Chanakya, 109-139 by CNX, and 131-166 by Axis My India.

With 80 Lok Sabha seats, Uttar Pradesh remains a crucial battleground. In 2019, the BJP won 62 seats when the Samajwadi Party and Bahujan Samaj Party were allied. Now, with the Samajwadi Party allied with the Congress, all three polls predict the BJP will improve its tally in the state. News 24-Today’s Chanakya forecasts 68 (plus-minus 7) seats, India Today-Axis My India estimates 67-72 seats, and India TV-CNX projects 70-74 seats for the BJP.

All three polls also suggest the NDA will perform better in the South compared to 2019. Another significant prediction from the exit polls is that the BJP will secure more seats than the Trinamool Congress in West Bengal, with Axis My India projecting 26-31 of the state’s 42 seats for the ruling party at the Centre.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
BlogFeaturedIndiaIndia Parliament

Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Phase 7, Final Phase of Voting Begins

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

The final phase of the 18th Lok Sabha elections commenced at 7 am on Saturday, marking the conclusion of India’s grand democratic exercise to elect 543 representatives for the 18th Lok Sabha. This phase encompasses 57 constituencies, including 41 general seats, three reserved for Scheduled Tribes (ST), and 13 for Scheduled Castes (SC), spanning eight states and Union Territories. Additionally, voters in 42 assembly constituencies of the Odisha Legislative Assembly are also casting their ballots today.

The states and union territories participating in this seventh phase are Bihar (8 out of 40 seats), Himachal Pradesh (4 out of 4 seats), Jharkhand (3 out of 14 seats), Odisha (6 out of 21 seats), Punjab (13 out of 13 seats), Uttar Pradesh (13 out of 80 seats), West Bengal (9 out of 42 seats), and the Chandigarh Union Territory. As the polling concludes, it will mark the end of the world’s largest electoral marathon, which began on April 19 and has already covered six phases and 486 Lok Sabha seats.

Key Candidates in the Spotlight

Several prominent candidates are in the fray during this final phase. Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeks a third term representing Uttar Pradesh’s Varanasi, facing off against Congress’ Ajay Rai. Former Union Minister and BJP stalwart Ravi Shankar Prasad is contesting from Patna Sahib. Actress Kangana Ranaut has entered the political arena from Mandi, Himachal Pradesh. Other notable candidates include Congress’ Manish Tewari from Chandigarh, Samajwadi Party leader Afzal Ansari from Ghazipur, and Bhojpuri star Pawan Singh from Karakat.

Key Facts About Phase 7

  • Voter Demographics: Over 10.06 crore voters are eligible to vote in this phase, comprising 5.24 crore males, 4.82 crore females, and 3,574 third-gender electors.
  • Polling Infrastructure: Approximately 10.9 lakh polling officials are on duty to facilitate voting across around 1.09 lakh polling stations.

High-Profile Contests

All eyes are particularly on Uttar Pradesh’s Varanasi and Himachal Pradesh’s Mandi constituencies, both strongholds for the BJP. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s candidature from the historic temple town of Varanasi is a significant highlight. In Mandi, actress Kangana Ranaut’s entry into politics has generated considerable interest and media attention.

Campaigning and Security

Campaigning for the seventh phase concluded on Friday, May 30. The Election Commission has ensured tight security arrangements across all polling stations to ensure a smooth and fair voting process. The weather department has also issued advisories to help manage voter turnout, given the summer heat.

As India wraps up its largest democratic exercise, the nation eagerly awaits the results, which will determine the next government and the future course of the country’s political landscape. With a mix of seasoned politicians and new entrants, the final phase promises to be a climactic end to a closely watched election season.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
BlogFeaturedIndiaIndia ParliamentLok Sabha Elections

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Delhi’s Political Heavyweights Cast Votes Amid High Security

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

Polling for the seven parliamentary constituencies in Delhi commenced this morning as part of the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha elections. Voters queued up early at polling stations, undeterred by the scorching heat and tight security arrangements, an official confirmed.

Weather and Preparations

The India Meteorological Department has issued a “yellow alert” for the day, forecasting that temperatures could soar to a sweltering 44 degrees Celsius. In response, the Delhi election department has made extensive preparations to ensure voter comfort and safety in the heat. Despite the early hour, many voters were seen lining up outside polling stations well before voting began at 7 a.m.

Voter Demographics

A total of 1.52 crore voters are eligible to cast their ballots across more than 13,000 polling booths in the city. This includes 82 lakh male voters, 69 lakh female voters, and 1,228 voters identifying as the third gender. Notably, there are over 2.52 lakh first-time voters participating in this election, highlighting the growing engagement of the youth in the democratic process.

Key Candidates and Constituencies

The electoral battle in Delhi is fiercely contested, with major political parties fielding prominent candidates across the seven constituencies:

  • Aam Aadmi Party (AAP): Kuldeep Kumar (East Delhi), Mahabal Mishra (West Delhi), Somnath Bharti (New Delhi), Sahi Ram Pahalwan (South Delhi).
  • Congress: J.P. Agarwal (Chandni Chowk), Kanhaiya Kumar (North East Delhi), Udit Raj (North West Delhi).
  • BJP: Manoj Tiwari (North East Delhi), Ramvir Singh Bidhuri (South Delhi), Bansuri Swaraj (New Delhi), Harsh Deep Malhotra (East Delhi), Yogendra Chandolia (North West Delhi), Praveen Khandelwal (Chandni Chowk), Kamaljeet Sehrawat (West Delhi).

Historical Context and Current Dynamics

The BJP has a stronghold in Delhi, having won all seven seats in the 2014 and 2019 general elections with significant margins. The party is aiming for a third consecutive clean sweep. However, the opposition INDIA bloc, comprising the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Congress, has fielded joint candidates for the first time, posing a formidable challenge to the ruling party. The seat-sharing agreement allocates four seats to AAP and three to Congress.

High-Profile Voters

High-profile leaders, including External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi, were among the early voters, emphasizing the significance of this electoral phase.

Security and Conduct

The polling process is being conducted under stringent security measures to ensure a smooth and fair election. Officials have assured that all necessary precautions are in place to handle any eventuality arising from the extreme weather conditions.

Conclusion

As the day progresses, the voter turnout and the efficiency of the arrangements will be closely monitored. This election is critical not just for Delhi but for the national political landscape, given the high stakes and the intense competition among the major political parties. With AAP and Congress joining forces against the BJP, the outcome in Delhi could significantly influence the overall results of the Lok Sabha elections 2024.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Newer Posts
Older Posts

Our News Portal

We provide accurate, balanced, and impartial coverage of national and international affairs, focusing on the activities and developments within the parliament and its surrounding political landscape. We aim to foster informed public discourse and promote transparency in governance through our news articles, features, and opinion pieces.

  • New Delhi
  • Phone: (+91) 7588-772545
  • Email: theparliamentnew23@gmail.com
  • Support: tpnews@theparliamentnews.com

About Links

Useful Links

Newsletter

Subscribe my Newsletter for new blog posts, tips & new photos. Let's stay updated!

Laest News

UK: Labour’s Historic Win Over Conservatives, Starmer to Become Prime Minister
Elon Musk Pauses India Expansion Plans as Tesla Faces Capital Crunch
UK Election 2024: Sunak’s Fight for Survival or Starmer’s Moment of Triumph? All You Need to Know
“Almost Fell Asleep”: Joe Biden Reacts to Debate Debacle Against Trump

@2023 – All Right Reserved. Designed and Developed by The Parliament News

Facebook Twitter Instagram Linkedin Youtube Email
Are you sure want to unlock this post?
Unlock left : 0
Are you sure want to cancel subscription?
-
00:00
00:00

Queue

Update Required Flash plugin
-
00:00
00:00