The fourth phase of the highly anticipated Lok Sabha elections, held on May 13, 2024, saw an encouraging voter turnout of 64.60% across 96 constituencies spread over 10 states and union territories. However, the day was not without its share of challenges, with incidents of violence and Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) malfunctioning reported from some states.
Among the highlights of the voting day was the highest voter turnout of 76.89% recorded in West Bengal, despite clashes between workers of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in certain areas. The state witnessed several high-profile contests, including those in Krishnagar, Baharampur, and Asansol.
Meanwhile, the parliamentary constituency of Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir, experiencing its first elections since the abrogation of Article 370, recorded the lowest turnout at 38%. This historic election marked a significant moment for the region, reflecting a changing political landscape.
In Maharashtra, the voting percentage stood at 59.33%, while Andhra Pradesh and Telangana witnessed turnouts of 68.87% and 62.64% respectively. However, instances of electoral misconduct surfaced in some constituencies, such as a case registered against a BJP candidate in Telangana’s Hyderabad Lok Sabha seat for allegedly asking burqa-clad women voters to reveal their faces.
Other states like Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Bihar, and Jharkhand saw turnout percentages of 65.77%, 57.06%, and 64.59% respectively. Concurrently, assembly polls were held for 175 and 28 out of 147 seats in Andhra Pradesh and Odisha, adding another layer of significance to the electoral process.
Uttar Pradesh, with its significant stake in parliamentary representation, witnessed a turnout of 58.05%. However, allegations of electoral malpractice emerged in some areas, with Samajwadi Party (SP) leader Akhilesh Yadav accusing the BJP of rigging the polls in Kannauj. Despite these challenges, citizens across the country continued to exercise their democratic rights, reaffirming the strength of India’s electoral process.
The Lok Sabha elections, spanning seven phases, are set to conclude on June 1, with the counting of votes scheduled for June 4. As the nation progresses through this crucial democratic exercise, each phase brings with it its own set of triumphs and tribulations, shaping the future trajectory of Indian politics.
