New Delhi: The Phase 3 Lok Sabha voting percentage has edged closer to the 2019 figure for these corresponding seats, with Election Commission (EC) estimates at 10 pm Wednesday showing a 2024 turnout of 65.68% against 67.33% last time — a dip of 1.65 percentage points.
This comes after the first two phases of the elections saw turnout dipping by just under 4 percentage points and 3 percentage points, respectively, compared to 2019. In a statement Tuesday, the EC had said the turnout in Phase 3 was estimated to be 64.40% at 11.40 pm and that the final figures would be released by Saturday.
On Wednesday, the EC’s Voter Turnout app, which shows real-time estimates as updated by Returning Officers, indicated that turnout had increased in five of the 11 states and Union Territories in Phase 3 — Assam, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Goa and Madhya Pradesh. However, the rest — Bihar, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu — recorded a decline as of 10 pm, compared to the 2019 turnouts in these seats. The Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu had the steepest decline at 5.74 percentage points, followed by Gujarat — which saw all 26 seats go to the polls in Phase 3 — at 4.37 percentage points as of 10 pm.
The elections in Phase 3 witnessed over 1,331 candidates, including around 120 women, vying for seats. Despite the slight decline in turnout, the Election Commission emphasized the importance of voter participation. An EC official stated, “While we have seen a minor dip in voter turnout, it is crucial for every citizen to exercise their democratic right. Our efforts to ensure a smooth and accessible voting process remain steadfast.”
The next four phases of the elections are scheduled for May 13, May 20, May 25, and June 1. The counting of votes is set for June 4, with the nation eagerly awaiting the results.
The first phase on April 19 saw 102 constituencies go to the polls, with a final turnout of 66.14%, a decrease of just under 4 percentage points from 70% in 2019. The second phase, covering 88 seats on April 26, had a dip of about 3 percentage points from 69.64% in 2019, excluding the five seats of Assam that have been redrawn due to delimitation last year, to 66.71%.
Political analysts are closely monitoring the turnout trends, which can significantly impact the election outcomes. Dr. Anjali Singh, a political science professor, commented, “The marginal decrease in voter turnout in the first three phases suggests a slight shift in voter enthusiasm or possibly logistical challenges faced by voters. However, the remaining phases will be critical in determining the overall trend.”
As the nation progresses through the election phases, the Election Commission continues to encourage voter participation, highlighting the importance of each vote in shaping the country’s future. The final turnout figures for Phase 3 will be keenly awaited, as they provide valuable insights into the public’s engagement in the democratic process.
The Election Commission’s focus on transparency and real-time updates via the Voter Turnout app has been instrumental in keeping the public informed. With over 1,331 candidates in the fray, including a significant number of women, Phase 3 has demonstrated the vibrant and dynamic nature of India’s democracy.
