Phase 2 Elections: Over 60% Voting Recorded in 13 States and Union Territory

X: @the_news_21

As the second phase of elections unfolded across 14 states and one Union Territory on Friday, a significant voter turnout of over 60% was recorded till 3 pm, reflecting the electorate’s enthusiasm and commitment to democracy.

Tripura emerged as the frontrunner in voter participation, with a remarkable 68.9% turnout, closely followed by Manipur, where 68.4% of voters exercised their franchise by mid-afternoon. However, states like Bihar, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh trailed behind in terms of voter turnout at the same hour.

In the heartland state of Madhya Pradesh, 46.50% of voters had cast their ballots by 3 pm, indicating a steady pace of participation as polling continued across 88 seats spread across 13 states and the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

Amidst the electoral fervor, unique initiatives aimed at encouraging voter participation were observed across various regions. In Bengaluru, long queues formed outside restaurants offering dosas, laddus, coffee, and other food items either for free or at discounted rates to customers who exercised their voting rights.

In a display of cultural fusion, a polling booth at Sivni village in Chhattisgarh’s Kanker parliamentary constituency resembled a ‘mandap,’ adorned with traditional decorations and showcasing traditional marriage rituals. Decked in their finest traditional attire, numerous brides and grooms made their way to polling stations in Kanker, Rajnandgaon, and Mahasamund Lok Sabha constituencies to cast their votes, adding a touch of festivity to the democratic process.

As the day progressed, the electoral landscape came alive with vibrant hues of civic engagement and democratic fervor, reaffirming the collective commitment to shaping the nation’s future through the power of the ballot.