The penultimate phase of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections saw a high voter turnout of 59.06%, with West Bengal reporting the highest percentage at 78.19%. However, there were also reports of sporadic violence, particularly in Ghatal where paramilitary personnel had to shield BJP candidate Hiran Chatterjee. In Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag-Rajouri seat, where PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti is a contestant, the turnout was the highest in decades at 52%, despite claims of her party workers being detained.
India General Elections 2024: High Voter Turnout Amidst Sporadic Violence
The penultimate phase of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections concluded with a significant voter turnout of 59.06%. West Bengal recorded the highest percentage of voters at 78.19%.
Background
The Lok Sabha, or lower house of the Indian Parliament, has a total of 543 elected members. The 17th Lok Sabha elections are scheduled to take place in seven phases from April 11 to May 19, 2024.
Phase 6 Highlights
The sixth phase of the elections covered 91 constituencies spread across 12 states and union territories. Key highlights include:
Overall Trends
The overall voter turnout for the six phases held so far stands at 60.56%. This is slightly higher than the turnout of 59.45% recorded in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.
The elections have been largely peaceful so far, with only isolated incidents of violence. The Election Commission has deployed tight security arrangements across the country to ensure the smooth conduct of the polls.
Top 5 FAQs
1. When is the next phase of the Lok Sabha elections? The seventh and final phase of the Lok Sabha elections will be held on May 19, 2024.
2. What is the voter turnout so far? The overall voter turnout for the first six phases stands at 60.56%.
3. Which state has recorded the highest voter turnout? West Bengal has recorded the highest voter turnout of 78.19%.
4. Were there any reports of violence during Phase 6? Yes, there were reports of sporadic violence in Ghatal, West Bengal.
5. What is the significance of the high turnout in Jammu and Kashmir? The high turnout in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag-Rajouri seat is significant as it indicates an improvement in the security situation and increased participation in the electoral process.
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