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Assam Lok Sabha Polls: Over 70% Voter Turnout in All 5 Seats, Kaziranga Leads


1. Assam’s first phase of Lok Sabha elections saw over 70% voter turnout across all constituencies.
2. The Kaziranga constituency recorded the highest turnout, reflecting significant voter engagement.
3. The enthusiastic participation underscores the vitality of democratic processes in Assam.


Guwahati, April 20: The first phase of the Lok Sabha elections in Assam concluded with remarkable enthusiasm as voter turnout exceeded 70% across all five parliamentary constituencies. Among them, Kaziranga witnessed the highest turnout, marking a significant engagement of the electorate.

In the Kaziranga Parliamentary Constituency, the overall turnout of 75.79% showcased a robust participation of voters.

However, analyzing the turnout across different Legislative Assembly Constituencies (LACs) unveils disparities. While Kaliabor boasted an impressive 83.71% turnout, Sarupathar lagged at 70.38%.

Similarly, in the Sonitpur Parliamentary Constituency, the overall turnout of 74.81% reflected commendable civic duty.

Yet, variations persisted across LACs, with Biswanath recording a robust 77.54% turnout contrasted with Bihpuria’s 72.00%.


Also Read: Nagaland Witnesses Zero Voter Turnout in Six Districts Amidst Calls for Separate Statehood

In the Lakhimpur Parliamentary Constituency, the 72.65% overall turnout showcased mixed engagement levels.

Dhakuakhana shone with a turnout of 76.63%, while Sadiya trailed at 65.32%, indicating potential areas for targeted interventions to enhance participation.

The Dibrugarh Parliamentary Constituency witnessed an overall turnout of 76.74%, depicting a strong democratic fervor.

However, variations across LACs, such as Digboi and Makum compared to Chabua-Lahoal’s standout 79.26%, were notable.

Lastly, the Jorhat Parliamentary Constituency stood out with an overall turnout of 79.48%, highlighting a commendable commitment to the electoral process.

Nevertheless, disparities across LACs persisted, with Mahmora registering an impressive 81.81% compared to Jorhat’s 75.40%.

These turnout figures go beyond statistics; they reflect the vibrancy of democracy, showcasing the complex interplay of factors shaping civic engagement in Assam.

From rural to urban areas, each constituency tells a unique story of citizen participation, underscoring the importance of inclusive electoral processes.

Nagaland Witnesses Zero Voter Turnout in Six Districts Amidst Calls for Separate Statehood


1. Historic Voter Abstention in Nagaland Amidst Separate Statehood Demand.
2. ENPO-Led Protest: Zero Voter Turnout Reflects Deep-seated Grievances.
3. Nagaland Elections: Residents Demand Frontier Nagaland, Opt for Voter Abstention.


Kohima, April 20: Six districts in Nagaland witnessed a historic moment during the recent Lok Sabha elections, with zero voter turnout as a display of protest.

Led by the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO), residents abstained from voting to demand a separate state called Frontier Nagaland, reflecting deep-rooted grievances of neglect and marginalization.

The ENPO, representing seven tribal bodies, has been advocating for a separate state since 2010.

The districts of Mon, Tuensang, Longleng, Kiphire, Shamatore, and Noklak, constituting the ENPO area, remained devoid of any voter participation, showcasing solidarity with the demand for separate statehood.

This abstention was declared amidst the backdrop of a perceived “public emergency” in these districts, highlighting the firm opposition to political campaigning for the Lok Sabha polls.

Despite holding 20 seats in the 60-member Nagaland Assembly, the ENPO asserts that their region has been overlooked in terms of development.


Also Read: Assam Tops Voter Turnout at 70.77% by 6 PM in Lok Sabha Elections 2024; Mizoram Trails at 53.96%

Throughout the polling hours, reports confirmed zero turnouts until 1 pm, signaling the unwavering stance of the populace in these six districts.

The absence of voters serves as a powerful form of protest against systemic injustices and emphasizes the pressing need to address regional grievances.

In a remarkable show of unity, 20 legislators from Eastern Nagaland also refrained from voting in the ongoing elections, contributing to the subdued atmosphere across the region’s polling stations.

Assam Tops Voter Turnout at 70.77% by 6 PM in Lok Sabha Elections 2024; Mizoram Trails at 53.96%


1. Assam leads with a strong 70.77% voter turnout by 6 pm in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
2. Mizoram trails behind with a turnout of 53.96%, indicating variations in civic engagement in the northeast.
3. Contrasts in voter participation emphasize the need for increased awareness and engagement efforts in Mizoram.


Northeast India, April 19: In the initial phase of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Assam shines as a leader with an impressive 70.77% voter turnout by 6 pm, showcasing a robust civic engagement.

Meanwhile, Mizoram lags, registering a turnout of 53.96%, highlighting disparities in voter participation across northeastern states. The nationwide average turnout for this phase stands at 59.71%, reflecting varied levels of enthusiasm among voters.

Assam sets the pace with the highest voter turnout in the northeastern region, demonstrating active civic participation and a strong commitment to the electoral process.

Conversely, Mizoram’s voter turnout falls below the regional average, indicating a need for greater efforts to promote awareness and participation among its populace.


Also Read: BJP Raises Objections Over Shah Rukh Khan Lookalike Campaigning for Congress Candidate in Solapur

Data released by electoral authorities provides insights into voter engagement across northeastern states:

  • Assam: 70.77%
  • Mizoram: 53.96%
  • Tripura: 76.10%
  • Manipur: 68.62%
  • Meghalaya: 69.91%
  • Sikkim: 68.06%
  • Arunachal Pradesh: 64.07%
  • Nagaland: 56.18%

These figures underscore the diverse voter dynamics and highlight the importance of tailored strategies to enhance voter turnout and civic engagement, ensuring a more inclusive and representative electoral process.

BJP Raises Objections Over Shah Rukh Khan Lookalike Campaigning for Congress Candidate in Solapur


1. BJP raises objections to Shah Rukh Khan-lookalike campaigning for Congress in Solapur.
2. BJP accuses Congress of orchestrating a ‘scam’ with the lookalike’s campaign.
3. Concerns raised over the use of such tactics in election campaigns.


Solapur, April 19: The BJP has raised objections to a video circulating on social media featuring a Shah Rukh Khan-lookalike campaigning for Congress candidate Praniti Shinde in Solapur.

The BJP labeled it as a ‘scam’ orchestrated by the Congress party, expressing concern over the use of such tactics during election campaigns. Shehzad Poonawala, the national spokesperson for BJP, took to social media to highlight the issue, tagging the Election Commission of India and Shah Rukh Khan himself.

Poonawala underscored the lengths to which political parties may go to deceive voters, citing instances of fake surveys, fabricated narratives, and now, the alleged use of a lookalike to garner support.

While some reports identified the individual in the video as Ibrahim Qadri, a well-known Shah Rukh Khan doppelganger, there was no official confirmation regarding the person’s identity. Qadri, who hails from Gujarat, gained fame for his striking resemblance to Shah Rukh Khan, particularly during the release of the movie “Raees.”


Also Read: ENPO’s Reply to CEO’s Notice: Emphasizing Dialogue and Collaboration in Nagaland

He has a significant following on social media and often makes appearances at events, mimicking SRK’s dialogues, signature poses, and dance moves.

In the viral video, the Shah Rukh Khan-lookalike, characterized by a distinctive ponytail, can be seen waving to the crowd from a vehicle adorned with Congress banners featuring images of Rahul Gandhi and Praniti Shinde, among others.

Praniti Shinde, the daughter of former Union Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde and the incumbent MLA of Solapur City Central, has been nominated by the Congress for the Lok Sabha elections.

Solapur, slated for elections in the third phase on May 7, witnessed Sushil Shinde’s defeat to BJP’s Jaisidhesvar Swami in 2019.

This time, the BJP has put forward Ram Satpute, also an MLA from Maharashtra, as their candidate against Praniti Shinde.

This incident follows a recent trend of manipulated videos surfacing on social media, such as the altered clip of Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh purportedly criticizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi over unemployment and price rise.

ENPO’s Reply to CEO’s Notice: Emphasizing Dialogue and Collaboration in Nagaland


1. ENPO has provided a detailed response to the show cause notice from the CEO Nagaland, dated April 18, 2024.
2. The response is intended to address recent developments in the Eastern Nagaland region and clarify the organization’s stance and intentions.
3. ENPO aims to mitigate concerns raised and foster clarity regarding its actions and commitments.


Kohima, April 19: The Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organization (ENPO) has responded comprehensively to the show cause notice issued by the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Nagaland, dated April 18, 2024.

This response comes in light of recent developments in the Eastern Nagaland region, aiming to address concerns raised and clarify the organization’s stance and intentions.

Firstly, the ENPO reiterated that the public notice published on April 18, 2024, was primarily aimed at preventing potential disturbances in the Eastern Nagaland region and minimizing risks associated with the assembly of anti-social elements.

The organization stressed the importance of maintaining law and order, particularly during a period of Public Emergency, highlighting the voluntary nature of the shutdown initiative undertaken by the people of Eastern Nagaland.

In its communication with the Election Commission of India on April 1, 2024, the ENPO explained that the decision to abstain from participating in the Lok Sabha elections 2024 was based on prevailing circumstances and the sentiments of the Eastern Nagaland populace.

It emphasized that the notice issued on April 18 was intended to ensure the safety and well-being of residents, rather than influence election proceedings.


Also Read: Mizoram Elections: Lawngtlai District Leads with 43.35% Voter Turnout by 1 PM

Responding to allegations of coercion or enforcement, the ENPO clarified that it lacks the authority to enforce resolutions or orders.

Instead, it operates solely based on voluntary participation and consensus among Eastern Nagaland residents.

Furthermore, the organization extended its assurance of full cooperation to the CEO Nagaland, expressing willingness to provide additional clarification or information to resolve any misunderstandings.

Importantly, the ENPO reaffirmed its openness to dialogue and collaboration, underscoring its commitment to ensuring the smooth functioning of law and order in the Eastern Nagaland region.

By engaging in constructive communication and cooperation, both the ENPO and CEO Nagaland aim to address concerns and foster a conducive environment for the well-being of the local populace.

This collaborative approach reflects the shared goal of promoting peace and stability in the region.

Mizoram Elections: Lawngtlai District Leads with 43.35% Voter Turnout by 1 PM


1. Mizoram’s Lok Sabha elections witness a substantial 43.35% voter turnout by 1 PM.
2. Dr. H. Lianzela, Additional Chief Electoral Officer of Mizoram, releases official turnout data.
3. Active civic participation is evident across the state during the ongoing electoral process.


Aizawl, April 19: The ongoing Lok Sabha elections in Mizoram have seen a remarkable voter turnout, reaching 43.35% by 1 PM, showcasing active civic engagement across the state.

According to data released by Dr. H. Lianzela, Additional Chief Electoral Officer and State Media Nodal Officer of Mizoram, the voter turnout in each district stands as follows:

  • Aizawl: 38.09%
  • Lunglei: 45.86%
  • Siaha: 43.80%
  • Champhai: 45.67%
  • Kolasib: 44.08%
  • Serchhip: 45.24%
  • Lawngtlai: 51.67%
  • Mamit: 45.64%
  • Khawzawl: 47.90%
  • Hnahthial: 43.73%
  • Saitual: 42.52%

Also Read: Manipur Witnesses Violence, Tripura Tops Voter Turnout: Key Highlights from Lok Sabha Elections

Among these districts, Lawngtlai has recorded the highest voter turnout at an impressive 51.67%, while Aizawl reported the lowest at 38.09%.

The substantial turnout signifies the active participation of citizens in the electoral process, highlighting the importance of exercising democratic rights.

Amid the elections, Chief Minister Lalduhoma himself participated in the democratic process by casting his vote for the Chawlhhmun Govt. Comprehensive Middle School Polling Station in Aizawl, Mizoram.

This act underscores the significance of political leaders leading by example and participating in the electoral process alongside the citizens they serve.

Lalduhoma, a former Indian Police Service officer, has been at the helm as the 6th Chief Minister of Mizoram since December 8, 2023.

His journey into politics began after resigning from the security service under Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

In 1984, he was elected as a Member of Parliament to the Lok Sabha from Mizoram, marking the beginning of his political career.

Manipur Witnesses Violence, Tripura Tops Voter Turnout: Key Highlights from Lok Sabha Elections


1. Tripura leads with an impressive 53.04% voter turnout in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.
2. Following closely are Meghalaya and Manipur, both reporting high percentages of voter participation.
3. As of 1 pm, the surge in voter turnout signifies strong civic engagement in these states.


Imphal, April 19: The ongoing Lok Sabha elections have witnessed a significant surge in voter turnout across various states in the country. As of 1 pm, Tripura leads with an impressive turnout of 53.04%, followed closely by Meghalaya and Manipur, both reporting high percentages.

West Bengal has also seen a substantial turnout at 50.96%, while Lakshadweep recorded the lowest turnout at 29.91%.

Notable voting percentages in states participating in the first phase include Jammu and Kashmir at 43.11%, Assam at 45.12%, and Madhya Pradesh at 44.43%.

However, amidst the electoral process, the Inner Manipur constituency has witnessed disturbing incidents of intimidation and violence.

Reports indicate that armed individuals fired shots near a polling booth in Thamnapokpi, causing voters to flee in fear.

Additionally, in areas such as Uripok and Iroishemba, agents of a political party were reportedly forced to leave polling stations. Subsequently, enraged voters at Iroishemba resorted to forcefully entering polling stations and damaging election materials.

Similar altercations and damage to Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) occurred in Kiyamgei and Khongman Zone 4.

Disturbing videos and photos circulated on social media depict EVMs lying on the ground and polling station furniture damaged.

Some videos even suggest that voters were coerced at gunpoint to vote for a particular party, while in other cases, votes had allegedly been cast by unauthorized individuals.

In contrast, Outer Manipur, particularly areas with Kuki-majority assembly segments, experienced lower voter turnout.

Saitu and Saikul reported turnouts of 13.22% and 8.58% respectively, while Henglep recorded the highest turnout at 49%.


Also Read: Election Commission Issues Notice to Tipra Motha Chief Over Controversial Post in Tripura’s 2024 Lok Sabha Elections

Churachandpur witnessed a turnout of 43.67%, and Chandel, with a mix of Naga and Kuki voters, reported a turnout of 68.63%.

In general, Meitei-dominated areas saw slightly higher turnouts compared to Kuki regions, with Khangabok in Thoubal district recording 52.68% voting.

Here are the latest updates from the first phase of the Lok Sabha elections:

1. High Voter Turnout Across States

The Lok Sabha elections witnessed a significant surge in voter turnout across various states, with Tripura leading at 53.04% by 1 pm. Meghalaya and Manipur also reported high percentages, while West Bengal witnessed a substantial turnout at 50.96%. However, Lakshadweep recorded the lowest turnout at 29.91%. Notable voting percentages include Jammu and Kashmir at 43.11%, Assam at 45.12%, and Madhya Pradesh at 44.43%.

2. Incidents of Intimidation and Violence in Manipur

In the Inner Manipur constituency, incidents of intimidation and violence have been reported from various areas. Armed men fired shots near a polling booth in Thamnapokpi, leading voters to flee. At Uripok and Iroishemba, agents of a political party were asked to leave, prompting voters at Iroishemba to forcefully enter polling stations and damage election materials. Similar incidents occurred in Kiyamgei and Khongman Zone 4, resulting in altercations and damage to EVMs.

3. Turnout in Outer Manipur

In Outer Manipur, areas with Kuki-majority assembly segments saw a low turnout, with Saitu and Saikul recording 13.22% and 8.58% respectively. However, Henglep had the highest turnout at 49%. Churachandpur recorded a turnout of 43.67%, while Chandel, with both Naga and Kuki voters, saw 68.63% turnout. Meitei-dominated areas had slightly higher turnouts than Kuki regions.

4. Updates from Tamil Nadu

Polling gradually picked up across all 39 Lok Sabha constituencies in Tamil Nadu, registering a 40.05% voter turnout by 1 pm. Incidents of minor glitches in EVMs were reported in some places, causing brief delays. The Chief Electoral Officer sought a detailed report on the death of a voter at polling booths in Salem and Kallakurichi constituencies.

5. Turnout in Assam

Assam recorded a voter turnout of 45.12% till 1 pm in the five Lok Sabha seats where elections are ongoing. Notable candidates include Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal and Lok Sabha deputy leader of opposition Gaurav Gogoi of Congress.

6. West Bengal Voter Turnout

West Bengal saw a significant voter turnout of 50.96% in the three Lok Sabha seats during the first phase of elections. Coochbehar, Jalpaiguri, and Alipurduars constituencies witnessed approximately 56.26 lakh eligible voters participating in the polling process.

7. Polling in Western Uttar Pradesh

In the first six hours of polling, an average voter turnout of 36.96% was recorded in eight constituencies of western Uttar Pradesh. The polling process proceeded without significant glitches or law-and-order issues, although there were reports of polling boycotts in some areas.

8. Voter Turnout in Bihar

Approximately 31.47% of the 75 lakh voters in four Lok Sabha constituencies in Bihar cast their votes by 1 pm on Friday. Tight security measures were in place, especially in sensitive areas.

9. Maharashtra Voting Updates

Nearly 30.6% of eligible voters cast their ballots by 1 pm across five Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra. RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, and other prominent figures exercised their franchise.

10. Turnout in Tripura West

Tripura West Lok Sabha constituency witnessed a 52.67% voter turnout by 1 pm amid allegations of irregularities. Opposition parties alleged large-scale “rigging” across the constituency, prompting an investigation by the Election Commission.

Despite incidents of intimidation and irregularities in some areas, voter turnout has been significant across various states participating in the Lok Sabha elections.

The Election Commission continues to monitor the situation closely to ensure a free and fair electoral process.

Election Commission Issues Notice to Tipra Motha Chief Over Controversial Post in Tripura’s 2024 Lok Sabha Elections


1. Election Commission serves to show cause notice to Tipra Motha chief for controversial Facebook post.
2. Debbarma instructed to take down the post promptly and provide an explanation by 2 PM.
3. Notice issued on April 19 over alleged violation of electoral laws.


Agartala, April 19: The Election Commission issued a show cause notice to Tipra Motha chief Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarma for a controversial Facebook post on April 19. Debbarma was directed to remove the post immediately and provide an explanation by 2 PM the same day.

The notice cited Section 126(1)(b) of The Representation of the People Act, 1951, which restricts the display or propagation of election matters through various media platforms, including social media, 48 hours before the conclusion of the poll in a particular area.

The Election Commission emphasized that statements made by leaders on public platforms influence voters’ opinions and, therefore, must adhere to electoral laws and the Model Code of Conduct.


Also Read: Gunfire at Manipur Polling Station Sends Voters Scrambling for Safety

The notice pointed out that Debbarma’s post appeared to appeal to a specific community to vote for a particular party, violating electoral laws.

As per electoral regulations, Debbarma was instructed to remove the post immediately and provide an explanation by 2 PM on April 19 to avoid further action for violating the Election Code of Conduct.

The Election Commission highlighted that the Model Code of Conduct came into force with the announcement of General Elections to the Lok Sabha and Legislative Assemblies of Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Odisha, and Sikkim, 2024.

Additionally, the notice reiterated the restrictions under Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, prohibiting political parties and candidates from convening, attending, or addressing public meetings or processions 48 hours before the conclusion of the poll.

This restriction was applicable from 5:00 PM on April 17, 2024, to the conclusion of the poll on April 19, 2024, for the Tripura West PC in connection with the General Election to Lok Sabha, 2024.

Gunfire at Manipur Polling Station Sends Voters Scrambling for Safety


1. Gunfire near Thamanpokpi polling station during Manipur’s Lok Sabha polls causes panic among voters.
2. Fortunately, there were no reported casualties from the incident.
3. Voters flee in fear as miscreants fire rounds near Moirang Assembly segment polling station.


Imphal, April 19: Amid the commencement of Lok Sabha polls in Manipur, a disturbing incident unfolded as a group of miscreants fired several rounds near a polling station in Thamanpokpi, Moirang Assembly segment, on Friday. Fortunately, there were no reported casualties from the incident.

The gunfire sparked panic among voters who had gathered to cast their votes, prompting them to flee the polling booth in fear. A viral video captured the chaotic scene as people scrambled for safety amidst the sound of gunfire.

The first phase of polling for the Inner Manipur Lok Sabha seat and parts of Outer Manipur proceeded under tight security measures.


Also Read: Nagaland CEO Sends Notice to ENPO President Amid Lok Sabha Election Shutdown

However, Manipur has been grappling with ethnic tensions, particularly between the majority of Meiteis in the Imphal Valley and the Kuki-Zo tribal community, resulting in sporadic incidents of unrest.

In addition to the shooting incident, isolated clashes were reported in various places, including a scuffle between locals and unidentified individuals in the Thongju Assembly constituency under the Inner Manipur Lok Sabha seat.

Despite the unsettling events, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh cast his vote at Luwangsangbam Mamang Leikai and issued a fervent appeal to the electorate.

He emphasized the importance of voting to safeguard the state’s indigenous population and uphold its territorial integrity, urging voters to prioritize peace and stability.

Singh also rallied support for the BJP’s ally, the Naga People’s Front (NPF), highlighting the party’s commitment to backing Prime Minister Modi for a third term.

Encouraging voters to strengthen Modi’s leadership, Singh underscored the significance of casting ballots for the BJP to ensure continued progress and development in Manipur.

Nagaland CEO Sends Notice to ENPO President Amid Lok Sabha Election Shutdown


1. CEO acts against ENPO’s indefinite shutdown during Nagaland elections.
2. Shutdown sparks concerns over electoral process interference.
3. Shutdown effective from April 18 raises alarms ahead of Nagaland Lok Sabha polling.


Kohima, April 19: Amidst the Nagaland Lok Sabha elections, the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) has taken a decisive step against the Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organization (ENPO) for its indefinite total shutdown across Eastern Nagaland’s jurisdiction.

Effective from 6 p.m. on April 18, the shutdown raised alarm bells over its potential impact on the electoral process on the eve of polling for Nagaland’s lone Lok Sabha seat.

In response, the CEO’s office issued a stern show-cause notice to the ENPO president, citing Section 171C of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, questioning the legitimacy of such action. The CEO views the shutdown as a possible attempt to exert undue influence during a critical phase of the elections.

While the circular from the Eastern Nagaland Public Emergency Control Room (ENPECR) exempted certain groups from the bandh, including government officials on election duty, district administration, security forces, medical services, and essential public services, concerns persist regarding its potential to hinder voting rights in Eastern Nagaland.


Also Read: 100-Year-Old Woman Votes from Wheelchair in Kaliabor during Assam Lok Sabha Election 2024

Section 171C of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860 defines any voluntary interference with the free exercise of electoral rights as undue influence at an election. The notice, directed at the president of ENPO, underscores their role and authority over the ENPECR.

The CEO’s directive for a prompt response to the show-cause notice highlights the gravity of the situation and emphasizes the need for a fair and transparent electoral process.

It aims to ensure the unhindered exercise of voting rights for all residents in Eastern Nagaland during the Lok Sabha elections scheduled for April 19, 2024.

The president of ENPO is expected to address the concerns outlined in the notice promptly, acknowledging the potential interference in the electoral process.

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