Achi news desk-
GUWAHATI: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has finalized all arrangements to welcome voters for the start of the 18th Lok Sabha elections as well as legislative assembly elections in four states, marking the start of the first phase tomorrow. While emphasizing its unwavering commitment to conduct free, fair and peaceful elections, the committee reiterated its dedication to ensuring an accessible and incentive-free voting process.
Phase 1 of the 2024 General Election, scheduled for April 19, 2024, includes voting for 102 parliamentary constituencies and 92 assembly constituencies across 21 states/union territories. The polling stations will open at 7 am and close at 6 pm, with changes in the closing times depending on the parliamentary constituencies. A turnout of over 16.63 million voters is expected, including 8.4 million males, 8.23 ​​million females and 11,371 transgender electors.
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Among the electorate, 35.67 lakh first-time voters and 3.51 million young voters aged 20-29 are registered to vote at the polls. 1,625 candidates participate in the competition, including 1,491 men and 134 women. To facilitate the smooth conduct of the elections, a deployment of 41 helicopters, 84 special trains and almost 1 lakh vehicles was organized to transport survey and security personnel.
Instructions have been made to over 14.14 lakh registered voters aged 85 and above, as well as 13.89 lakh Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), to exercise their franchise from the comfort of their homes. Special arrangements, such as pick-up and drop-off facilities and wheelchair booking through the ECI Saksham app, have been made for those who choose to visit polling stations.
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The polling station models were equipped with essential facilities, managed by women and people with disabilities. To facilitate media coverage, the committee issued letters of authority to media personnel and launched dedicated platforms to monitor voter turnout and provide comprehensive information related to the elections.
