GUWAHATI: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has finalised all arrangements to welcome voters for the commencement of the 18th Lok Sabha elections as well as legislative assembly elections across four states, marking the initiation of phase one tomorrow. Emphasising on its unwavering commitment to conducting free, fair, and peaceful elections, the Commission reiterated its dedication to ensure an accessible and inducement-free voting process.
Phase 1 of the general elections 2024, scheduled for April 19, 2024, and encompasses voting for 102 parliamentary constituencies and 92 assembly constituencies across 21 states/union territories. The polling booths will open at 7 AM and close at 6 PM, with variations in closure timings based on parliamentary constituencies. A turnout of over 16.63 crore voters is expected, including 8.4 crore males, 8.23 crore females, and 11,371 third-gender electors.
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Among the electorate, 35.67 lakh first-time voters and 3.51 crore young voters aged 20-29 years are registered to cast their ballots. The contest features 1,625 candidates, comprising 1,491 males and 134 females. To facilitate the smooth conduct of elections, the deployment of 41 helicopters, 84 special trains, and nearly 1 lakh vehicles has been organised to transport polling and security personnel.
Provisions have been made for 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-and-drop facilities and wheelchair bookings via the ECI Saksham App, have been made for those opting to visit polling stations.
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Model polling stations have been equipped with essential facilities, managed by women and persons with disabilities. To facilitate media coverage, the commission has issued authority letters to media persons and launched dedicated platforms to track voter turnout and provide comprehensive election-related information.
