1. Manipur prepares for the first phase of General Elections to the 17th Lok Sabha on April 19th, 2024.
2. Citizens eagerly anticipate exercising their fundamental right to vote.
3. Anticipation fills the air as Manipur readies for the electoral process.
Imphal, April 19: Manipur stands at the threshold of the first phase of General Elections to the 17th Lok Sabha, with polling day scheduled for April 19th, 2024.
The air is charged with anticipation as citizens gear up to exercise their fundamental right to vote.
Today’s polling heralds the initiation of the electoral journey for both the Inner Manipur and Outer Manipur (ST) Parliamentary Constituencies.
Across the state, a formidable cohort of 15,44,652 voters – comprising 7,41,849 male, 8,02,557 female, and 246 transgender voters – are poised to make their voices heard.
The electoral battleground spans 32 Assembly Segments for Inner Manipur and 15 Assembly Segments for Outer Manipur (ST) Parliamentary Constituencies.
In a laudable stride toward gender parity and inclusivity, 645 polling stations will be under the exclusive management of women personnel, while two polling stations will be manned solely by Persons with Disabilities (PwD) personnel.
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Moreover, provisions have been made for Internally Displaced Voters across various districts, with 85 special polling stations erected for their convenience.
A total of 10 candidates, 6 for Inner Manipur and 4 for Outer Manipur (ST) Parliamentary Constituencies, are contending in this inaugural phase. Rigorous scrutiny accompanies the electoral process, with webcasting/videography arrangements in 1256 polling stations and the deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and Micro Observers in pivotal polling stations.
Accessibility is paramount, with provisions for pick-up/drop services for PwD and elderly voters, alongside wheelchair facilities.
Voter Assistance Booths, ASHA workers for immediate healthcare, and Anganwadi workers catering to pregnant and lactating mothers further underscore the commitment to a seamless electoral experience.
Innovative technological interventions enhance the efficiency and transparency of the electoral apparatus.
The e-Traccar App facilitates the tracking of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) movement, while the Poll Star App ensures real-time reporting of voter turnout. Control Rooms, strategically positioned across districts, facilitate effective coordination and management.
As the pulse of democracy quickens, the Chief Electoral Officer of Manipur extends a fervent appeal to all voters to engage actively and responsibly in the electoral process.
Citizens are reminded to carry their Electors Photo Identity Card (EPIC) or any of the 12 alternative identity documents for smooth identification at the polling stations.
Amidst the buzz of anticipation, Manipur braces itself for a day of civic duty and democratic empowerment, as citizens step forward to shape the destiny of their nation.
