New Delhi: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has set the democratic stage for the nation as Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar announced the much-anticipated schedule for the 18th Lok Sabha elections today. The announcement marks the beginning of what is expected to be a two-month-long electoral battle that will shape the future of India’s governance.
The ECI confirmed that a staggering 96.88 crore voters are registered to exercise their franchise in these elections, with women voters constituting approximately 47.15 crore. The commission has meticulously prepared for the elections, ensuring the deployment of 2,150 officers across various roles to oversee the electoral process.
In his briefing, CEC Rajiv Kumar emphasized the commission’s commitment to conducting free, fair, and transparent elections. He highlighted the deployment of general observers, police observers, and expenditure observers to ensure a level playing field for all political contenders. Kumar also addressed the media on the commission’s readiness, stating, "We are fully prepared to conduct the 2024 Parliamentary elections and state Assembly elections".
The ECI’s announcement also includes the dates for assembly elections in four states—Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh—signalling a comprehensive electoral exercise nationwide. The Chief Election Commissioner’s statement comes as a reassurance to the public and the international community about India’s robust electoral system.
As the country braces for the elections, political parties have begun strategizing and campaigning, with the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) seeking an unprecedented third term and the opposition bloc, loosely aligned under the INDIA coalition, aiming to challenge the NDA’s dominance.
The Model Code of Conduct is now in effect, ensuring that the electoral process is conducted with the utmost integrity and in accordance with democratic principles. With the election dates set, India is now on the path to deciding its political destiny for the next five years.
For continuous coverage of the 2024 General Elections, stay tuned.
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