1. The second phase of Lok Sabha elections spans 88 constituencies across 12 states, and 1 Union territory.
2. From Manipur’s turmoil to Maharashtra’s political dynamism, diverse voter demographics set to participate.
3. 158.8 million voters, including first-timers and youth, to cast ballots from Jammu to Kerala.
New Delhi, April 26: The second phase of the Lok Sabha elections, covering 88 constituencies across 12 states and one Union territory, unfolds today.
From the strife-torn lands of Manipur to the politically dynamic Maharashtra, and from Jammu to Kerala, a total of 158.8 million voters, including 3.4 million first-time voters and 32.8 million individuals aged between 20 and 29, are set to exercise their franchise.
Candidates in the Fray
This phase witnesses the participation of 1,202 candidates, including three former chief ministers. By the end of the day, elections for 189 seats, encompassing all seats in 11 states and three UTs, will conclude.
Originally slated for 89 seats, the demise of Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) candidate Ashok Bhalavi in Madhya Pradesh’s Betul led to the Election Commission of India adjourning the election.
Turnout Concerns
The voter turnout in the first phase ranged between 64% and 65%, compared to 69.3% for the same seats in 2019. Analysts attribute the dip to various factors, including weather conditions and voter apathy. If the turnout remains low, it could raise concerns across political parties.
Redrawn Boundaries and Reserved Seats
Six of the 88 seats, including five in Assam and one in Jammu, have been redrawn after a delimitation exercise in 2023. The remaining 82 seats saw a turnout of 69.6% in 2019. Among these seats, six are reserved for scheduled tribes, while nine are reserved for scheduled castes.
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Electoral Landscape and Counting
Counting for all seven phases is scheduled for June 4. Of the 82 seats with comparative data, 56 are held by constituents of the NDA, including 47 seats with sitting BJP MPs. The Opposition Alliance INDIA holds 23 seats, with the Congress occupying 17. Kerala, with 15 of these seats, witnessed a sweep by the Congress-led UDF in 2019.
Weather Challenges and Preparations
The elections coincide with intense summer conditions, particularly in eastern India, with temperatures expected to surpass 43 degrees Celsius in some districts.
The Election Commission, while anticipating normal weather, has made meticulous arrangements at all polling stations to manage hot weather conditions. Polling time has been extended in select areas to facilitate voters.
Political Controversies and Debates
The elections take place amidst political uproar, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi accusing the Congress of intending to reintroduce the inheritance tax and redistribute reservation benefits to Muslims. Modi’s remarks were sparked by Indian Overseas Congress chief Sam Pitroda’s comments on inheritance tax, leading to a political spat between the BJP and the Congress.
State-wise Key Battles
In Rajasthan, 13 of its 25 seats are up for grabs, with high-profile candidates from both the BJP and the Congress vying for victory. Kerala witnesses a three-way contest between the BJP, the LDF, and the UDF, with Rahul Gandhi and CM Pinarayi Vijayan engaging in a heated campaign. Karnataka, Maharashtra, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh also host key contests, showcasing the diversity and political significance of Phase 2.
Security Measures
Security remains paramount, especially in areas prone to violence and insurgency. Chhattisgarh, with its history of Maoist activities, requires heightened security measures.
The Election Commission has deployed helicopters, special trains, and vehicles to ferry polling and security personnel across the 88 constituencies.
With political fortunes hanging in the balance, the Lok Sabha elections phase 2 promises to be a pivotal moment in shaping India’s political landscape.
