Posted by New Delhi:Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended heartfelt gratitude to the citizens following the conclusion of the first phase of polling, embracing a narrative of healing and unity. Expressing his profound appreciation, PM Modi posted on X, “First phase, great response! Thank you to all those who have voted today. Getting EXCELLENT feedback from today’s voting. It’s clear that people across India are voting for NDA in record numbers”.
First phase, great response! Thank you to all those who have voted today.
Getting EXCELLENT feedback from today’s voting. It’s clear that people across India are voting for NDA in record numbers.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 19, 2024
With an overwhelming voter turnout of 60.03% until 7 pm across 102 constituencies spanning 21 states and Union Territories, the Election Commission of India heralded the resonance of civic engagement, foreseeing a potential rise in turnout figures. In a poignant juxtaposition with the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, where the turnout stood at 69.43%, the current phase witnessed a stirring of collective conscience towards renewed participation.
Amidst the tapestry of states and UTs, Tripura emerged as a beacon of civic fervour with a resounding turnout of 80.17%, symbolising a resolute stride towards democratic rejuvenation. Noteworthy contributions echoed from diverse corners, with each region weaving a tapestry of resilience and hope. Despite the spectre of past strife, Manipur embraced the ballot with fortitude, exemplifying a narrative of resilience and peace.
Among the states and UTs that went to the polls on Friday, Tripura recorded the highest turnout of 80.17% till 9pm. Voter turnout figures in the other states are: Andaman Nicobar (56.87%), Arunachal Pradesh (67.15%), Assam (72.10%), Bihar (48.50%), Chhattisgarh (63.41%), J&K (65.08%), Lakshadweep (59.02%), Madhya Pradesh (64.77%), Maharashtra (55.35%), Manipur (69.13%), Meghalaya (74.21%), Mizoram (54.23%), Nagaland (56.91%), Puducherry (73.50%), Rajasthan (56.58%), Sikkim (69.47%), Tamil Nadu (65.19%), Uttar Pradesh (58.49%), Uttarakhand (54.06%), West Bengal (77.57%).
Yet, amidst the prevailing ethos of renewal, pockets of discord marred the canvas of electoral harmony. Instances of violence in Manipur and reported disturbances in West Bengal cast a sombre shadow on the electoral process. However, amidst these challenges, the collective resolve to uphold democratic ideals remained unwavering.
Post-balloting reflections illuminated the profound sentiment of the electorate, with BJP spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi saying that the voters voted for the PM M0di “In fact, even after the first phase of the election, Rahul Gandhi could not muster the courage to contest from Amethi. The result of the election is quite clear,” the spokesperson said. “We are going to make a big leap in states where we were considered comparatively weak,” Trivedi said hinting at BJP’s ‘big gains’ in Tamil Nadu.