Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Phase 7 news: In the final phase of the Lok Sabha elections, polling will be held in 57 seats across seven states and the Union territory of Chandigarh, including the high-profile constituency of Varanasi, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is seeking reelection for a third consecutive term. The polling encompasses all 13 seats in Punjab, four in Himachal Pradesh, 13 in Uttar Pradesh, nine in West Bengal, eight in Bihar, six in Odisha, and three in Jharkhand, alongside Chandigarh.
Polling for the remaining 42 assembly constituencies in Odisha and bypolls for six assembly seats in Himachal Pradesh will also occur simultaneously.
A total of 904 candidates are in the fray, including notable figures like Union minister Anurag Thakur, Mamata Banerjee’s nephew Abhishek Banerjee, Lalu Prasad’s daughter Misa Bharti, and actor Kangana Ranaut. Over 10.06 crore eligible voters, comprising nearly 5.24 crore men, 4.82 crore women, and 3,574 third-gender electors, are expected to cast their ballots in this phase.
This final phase marks the culmination of a protracted polling process that commenced on April 19, covering 486 Lok Sabha seats across 28 states and Union territories. Counting of votes will be on June 4. According to Election Commission guidelines, television channels and news outlets will be permitted to release exit poll data and results on June 1, post 6:30 PM.
The Election Commission has assured the deployment of polling parties, along with necessary equipment and materials, to all 1.09 lakh polling stations. Basic amenities such as shade, drinking water, ramps, and toilets have been ensured to facilitate a comfortable and secure voting environment. Moreover, the commission has instructed CEOs and state machineries to take proactive measures to mitigate the adverse effects of hot weather or rainfall wherever predicted.
The electoral discourse leading up to this phase has been intense, with BJP leaders, led by Prime Minister Modi, leveling accusations against the Congress and the INDIA alliance of corruption, anti-Hindu sentiments, and dynastic politics.
Opposition parties have countered with allegations of the BJP being anti-farmer, anti-youth, and threatening to alter the Constitution if victorious. Prime Minister Modi, concluding his campaign with a visit to Kanyakumari for meditation until June 1, has been engaged in extensive public outreach, comprising rallies and roadshows since March 16 when the Election Commission announced the Lok Sabha election schedule.