The Election Commission of India is all set to conduct the second phase of the 2024 Lok Sabha general elections tomorrow, with polling scheduled across 88 parliamentary constituencies in 13 states and union territories.
With favorable weather conditions predicted, meticulous arrangements have been made at all 1.67 lakh polling stations to facilitate a smooth voting process for the 15.88 crore eligible voters. Phase 2 will see polling in 73 general, 6 scheduled tribe, and 9 scheduled caste constituencies. Over 16 lakh polling officials will manage the exercise, with extensive measures in place to ensure accessibility and convenience for all voters, including the option of home voting for over 14.78 lakh citizens aged 85 and above, as well as 42,226 centenarians and 14.7 lakh persons with disabilities.
The Election Commission has deployed significant resources, including 3 helicopters, 4 special trains, and nearly 80,000 vehicles to facilitate the movement of personnel. Webcasting will be implemented in over 1 lakh polling stations, with micro-observers present at all locations to maintain strict vigilance. Stringent measures have been taken to prevent any form of voter inducement, with 4,553 flying squads, 5,731 static surveillance teams, 1,462 video surveillance teams, and 844 video viewing teams keeping round-the-clock surveillance. Additionally, 1,237 inter-state and 263 international border checkpoints have been established to monitor the flow of illicit materials.
To ensure accessibility, 4,195 model polling stations with local themes have been set up, with over 4,100 stations fully managed by women and 640 by persons with disabilities. Voter awareness and facilitation measures have been ramped up to encourage higher turnout, with voter information slips distributed to all registered voters.
The Election Commission has called upon citizens to exercise their democratic right and vote with responsibility and pride in this crucial phase of the general elections. Polling for Phase 2 will commence at 7 AM and conclude at 6 PM, with extended timings in certain constituencies to accommodate voters in hot weather conditions. The remaining phases will continue until June 1, with the counting of votes scheduled for June 4.
