The Chief Election Commissioner, Rajiv Kumar, has unveiled the comprehensive schedule for the highly anticipated Lok Sabha Elections 2024, coinciding with Assembly elections across Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Odisha, and Sikkim. These elections are slated to run concurrently, culminating in the much-awaited results announcement on June 4.
Following the announcement, the Election Commission promptly implemented the Model Code of Conduct, underscoring its commitment to ensuring fair and transparent elections. Spanning seven phases from April 19 to June 1, 2024, the Lok Sabha elections will encompass a wide array of constituencies across the nation, totaling 102 in the first phase, 89 in the second, 94 in the third, 96 in the fourth, 49 in the fifth, 57 in the sixth, and 57 in the seventh phase.
Simultaneously, the electoral landscape will be bustling with Assembly elections in Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, and Odisha. Notably, Andhra Pradesh boasts 25 Lok Sabha constituencies and 175 Assembly constituencies, while Odisha is poised to elect 147 assembly members, and Sikkim will convene its 32-member State assembly.
The scheduling of these Assembly elections varies, with Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim slated for April 19, Andhra Pradesh for May 13, and Odisha holding its assembly elections across four phases on May 13, May 20, May 25, and June 1. Furthermore, 26 Assembly constituencies are set for by-polls.
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Acknowledging the significance of these elections, the Election Commission has appealed to the Union Home Ministry to ensure robust security measures and effective law enforcement throughout the electoral process.
With an anticipated 10% of first-time voters contributing to the democratic exercise, the Lok Sabha Elections 2024 mark a pivotal moment in India's electoral narrative. Additionally, to uphold the sanctity of the electoral process, the Election Commission has issued directives to political parties, urging them to maintain dignity in campaigning and refrain from engaging in divisive tactics or disseminating false information. Strict penalties await those found in violation of the Model Code of Conduct, underscoring the Commission's commitment to a fair and transparent electoral process.
