The fourth phase of Lok Sabha elections saw a significant voter turnout across 96 constituencies in 10 states and Union Territories. Till 5 pm on Monday, over 62% of eligible voters had cast their ballots.
West Bengal recorded the highest polling with 75.66%, followed by Madhya Pradesh at 68.01%. However, Jammu Kashmir and Maharashtra reported lower turnouts at 35.75% and 52.49% respectively.
West Bengal-75.66%
Madhya Pradesh- 68.01%
Jammu and Kashmir- 35.75%
Maharashtra- 52.49%
Andhra Pradesh- 68.04%
Bihar-54.14%
Jharkhand-63.14%
Odisha- 62.96%
Telangana- 61.16%
Uttar Pradesh- 56.35%
In Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, Telangana, and Uttar Pradesh, the voter turnout ranged from 54.14% to 68.04%. Despite overall peaceful polling, incidents of violence were reported in Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal. In addition, some booths in West Bengal and Odisha experienced malfunctioning Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).
Allegations and Incidents of Violence
The election in Andhra Pradesh witnessed allegations and clashes between the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP). Both parties accused each other of violating the poll code and engaging in violent activities in various constituencies.
Notably, an incident in Tenali involved a YSRCP MLA allegedly slapping a voter after a dispute over queue-jumping.
In Telangana, a BJP candidate, K Madhavi Latha, faced criticism for allegedly asking women voters to reveal their identities by lifting their burqas at a polling booth. Such incidents raise concerns about voter intimidation and ethical conduct during elections.
Challenges in Kashmir and Displaced Voters
Srinagar’s election took place amidst concerns over low voter turnout and escalating tensions. The ruling BJP refrained from contesting in the Muslim-majority region. Moreover, many displaced Kashmiri Pandits in Jammu were unable to vote due to missing names from the electoral rolls, highlighting challenges in ensuring inclusivity in the electoral process.
Upcoming Phases and Total Turnout
With the conclusion of the fourth phase, polling has been completed in 379 out of 543 Lok Sabha seats. The first three phases witnessed turnouts ranging from 65.68% to 66.71%.
The subsequent three phases are scheduled for May 20, May 25, and June 1, with vote counting set for June 4. Overall, 1,717 candidates are competing in this phase, with over 17.70 crore eligible voters, including 8.73 crore women, participating in the democratic process.
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