Voting for the third phase of Lok Sabha elections commenced today across 93 constituencies in 11 states and Union Territories. This phase holds significant weight for the BJP, as it secured a majority of these seats in the previous election, notably in Gujarat, Karnataka, and Madhya Pradesh.
With over 1,300 candidates, including approximately 120 women, vying for seats, notable figures such as Union ministers Amit Shah, Jyotiraditya Scindia, and Pralhad Joshi are in the fray. A staggering 17.24 crore individuals, including 8.39 crore females, are eligible to cast their votes, facilitated by 1.85 lakh polling stations managed by 18.5 lakh officials.
Polling parties have been dispatched with necessary equipment to ensure a smooth electoral process, as stated by the Election Commission. Notably, the BJP has secured Surat uncontested, leaving 25 seats in Gujarat, among others, up for grabs today.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi exercised his franchise at a polling booth in the Gandhinagar Lok Sabha constituency, accompanied by Union Minister Amit Shah. The PM arrived at the Nishan Public School in Ahmedabad's Ranip locality as polling commenced at 7 am, casting his vote.
In addition to Gujarat, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Chhattisgarh, Bihar, Assam, West Bengal, and Goa, the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, along with nine seats in Madhya Pradesh, will witness polling today, including the deferred election in Betul.
This phase marks a crucial step in determining the future political landscape of the nation, with citizens exercising their democratic right to vote.
