New Delhi:" ELECTIONS BELONG TO YOU", appeals Chief Election commissioner to public while announcing General Election Schedule. Lok Sabha elections are scheduled for April 19 onwards. The Poll results are to be declared on June 4. The elections of the Largest Democracy in the World, will be conducted in seven phase in a span of one month. The Voting of Phase 1 is on April 19, Phase 2 on April 26, Phase 3 on May 7, Phase 4 on May 13, Phase 5 on May 20, Phase 6 on May 25 and last Phase on June 1, Elections in 26 states including Gujarat, Uttarakhand, Telangana will be held in a single phase, while Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal to vote in all seven phases.
Simultaneously, Legislative Assembly elections in four states, Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, odisha and Sikkim are also scheduled to kick-off from April 13. Andhra Pradesh on April 13, Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim on April 19, and Odisha in 4 Phases on May 13,20,25 and June 1.
Watch LIVE : Press Conference by Election Commission to announce schedule for General Elections 2024 to Lok Sabha & State Assemblies https://t.co/M8MRkdUdod— Election Commission of India (@ECISVEEP) March 16, 2024
India's Lok Sabha Elections are not just about choosing leaders; they're about upholding the values of fairness, respect, and democracy. As the country now has deadlines to prepare for this significant event, the Election Commission (EC) showed it worked tirelessly to ensure that every citizen can cast their vote freely and without fear. Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar addressed the press, outlining the measures the EC is taking to tackle challenges and promote a fair and inclusive electoral process.
Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), said, close to 96.8 crore individuals, with over 21 crore, young voters, are eligible to participate in the upcoming polls, speaking to the press.
CEC said, "There will be 49 crore men and 47 crore women voters in this elections." In 12 states, the ratio of women voters is higher than men and over 48,000 trasgenders are registered to vote in the upcoming elections.
CEC Kumar stated that the existing electoral register comprises 82 lakh voters aged 85 and above, with approximately 2.18 lakh individuals surpassing the age of 100. 13.4 lakh advanced applicants (not 18 years yet) who will turn 18 by April are also eligible to vote.
He confirmed the installation of around 55 lakh Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) across more than 10. 5 lakh polling stations and over 1.5 crore polling officials.
Key Highlights of the Press Conference
1. Promoting Political Conversation:
Rajiv Kumar, the chief electoral commissioner, highlighted the importance of political speech that unites people rather than separates them. A number of strategies were emphasised, including issue-based advocacy, abstaining from hate speech, and avoiding appeals to caste or religion. It was discouraged to criticise any part of private life in order to create a more refined campaign atmosphere.
2. Fighting False Information:
The EC released warnings on deceptive and unsubstantiated advertising. The topic of passing off commercials as news was explicitly covered, highlighting how crucial it is to be honest and open in campaign messaging.
3. Maintaining Civility and Security:
Rajiv Kumar, the Chief Election Commissioner, issued a strong warning against violence during voting and stated that the EC is prepared to take harsh action if such instances take place. Bloodshed and violence have no place in the electoral process, it is stressed.
4. Encouraging Convenience and Voter Education:
To help voters, a number of apps were featured, such as the VHA app for online form submission and polling station information, the cVigil app for reporting infractions, and the Know Your Candidate app for accessing candidate affidavits. All polling places had to have a minimal set of amenities, including wheelchair accessibility, restrooms, drinking water, and signage.
5. Handling Challenges in the Elections:
Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar listed the difficulties the EC is facing, mentioning concerns with funding, force, breaking the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), and false information. Reassured voters that the Electoral Commission is dedicated to enhancing the electoral process in order to guarantee a peaceful atmosphere.
Full Schedule
Lok Sabha Election
Phase 1
Phase 2
Phase 3
Phase 4
Phase 5
Phase 6
Phase 7
Legislative Assembly Elections of 4 states
Andhra Pradesh
Arunachal Pradesh
Odisha
Sikkim
