In the fourth phase of the Lok Sabha elections conducted on Monday, there was a noticeable uptick in voter participation compared to previous phases, as reported by the Election Commission (EC). At 11:45 pm, the voter turnout was recorded at 67.25 percent.
This turnout reflects an increase of 1.74 percentage points compared to the corresponding phase during the 2019 parliamentary elections. The EC emphasized that these figures are subject to continuous updates as polling teams return and report from the field.
A total of 96 seats were up for grabs in this fourth phase, bringing the total number of seats contested across 23 states and Union territories to 379. Additionally, polling has concluded in the Assembly elections of Andhra Pradesh, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh.
Comparing the current turnout with past elections, in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the fourth phase saw a turnout of 65.51 percent, with polling in 71 seats across nine states. Notably, the first phase of the ongoing general election recorded a 66.14 percent turnout, slightly lower than the 69.43 percent turnout in 2019.
Similarly, the second phase saw a turnout of 66.71 percent compared to 69.64 percent in 2019. The third phase recorded a turnout of 65.68 percent, down from 68.4 percent in 2019.
The EC outlined its post-poll procedures, including the scrutiny of election papers and the possibility of re-polling, if necessary, to be conducted after polling. Updated voter turnout figures, including gender-wise breakdowns, will be released by May 17.
The EC acknowledged concerns about voter apathy, particularly in light of heatwave conditions, and reiterated its commitment to enhancing voter registration and participation. Describing its efforts as "from roll to poll," the commission aims to address urban and youth apathy towards elections through persuasion rather than mandatory measures, given that voter registration and voting are not compulsory by law.
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