New Delhi: As India gears up for the first phase of its 2024 General Elections, Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar has made a heartfelt appeal to the nation’s electorate, urging them to participate with zeal and contribute to the democratic process. In a video released by the Election Commission, Kumar highlighted the significance of each vote in shaping the future of the world’s largest democracy.
The initial phase of voting, scheduled for April 19, will see 102 Parliamentary constituencies (General- 73; ST-11; SC-18) and 92 Assembly constituencies across 21 states and Union Territories go to polls. This phase also includes state assembly elections in Arunachal and Sikkim, marking it as the phase with the highest number of parliamentary seats up for grabs. Polling stations will open their doors at 7 am and close at 6 pm.
The Election Commission has left no stone unturned to ensure a smooth voting experience for the electorate, deploying over 18 lakh polling officers to facilitate the process for more than 16.63 crore voters. A total of 1.87 lakh polling stations have been established to accommodate 8.4 crore male, 8.23 crore female, and 11,371 third-gender voters. The youth vote is expected to be significant, with 3.51 crore voters aged between 20-29 years, and 35.67 lakh first-time voters set to exercise their franchise.
A total of 1625 candidates are vying for votes in this election. To support the logistical needs of the election, the Commission has mobilized 41 helicopters, 84 special trains, and approximately 1 lakh vehicles for the transportation of polling and security personnel. Security measures have been heightened, with central forces stationed at polling stations and webcasting implemented at over 50 percent of locations. Additionally, 361 observers, including general, police, and financial supervisors, have been appointed to oversee the election process.
Special attention has been given to inclusivity, with provisions for more than 14.14 lakh voters above 85 years of age and 13.89 lakh disabled voters. Facilities such as pick-and-drop services and wheelchair accessibility have been arranged, and voters can book these services through the ECI-enabled app. The Commission has also set up model polling stations with local themes and designated over 5000 polling stations to be managed entirely by women, with more than 1000 managed by Persons with Disabilities (PWD).
Chief Election Commissioner Rajeev Kumar has assured that all polling stations are equipped with essential amenities such as drinking water, toilets, sheds, ramps, wheelchairs, help desks, and volunteers to assist voters. Voter information slips have been distributed to residences, and Kumar has advised voters to take necessary precautions against the summer heat, confident that their enthusiasm will prevail.
In his closing remarks, Kumar reminded citizens of the profound impact of their vote, not just for themselves but for the nation as a whole. He invoked Mahatma Gandhi’s words on democracy, emphasizing that it provides equal opportunities for all, regardless of strength or weakness. Kumar’s message is clear: the power of one vote should never be underestimated, as it is the cornerstone of India’s vibrant democracy.
