'Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Phase 2 Voting Commences, Marking Key Contests
The second phase of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections has commenced, encompassing 88 constituencies across 13 states. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has implored citizens, particularly the youth and women, to participate in record numbers.
Polling booths have witnessed a steady stream of voters, including prominent figures like veteran BJP leader Vasundhara Raje, philanthropist Sudha Murty, Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy, actor Prakash Raj, Team India coach Rahul Dravid, and Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.
Key Battles in Kerala and Uttar Pradesh
Kerala is witnessing a high-stakes battle in the second phase, with several high-profile candidates in the fray. Former Congress President Rahul Gandhi seeks re-election from Wayanad, facing competition from CPI's Annie Raja and BJP's K Surendran. Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor faces off against Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar in Thiruvananthapuram.
Uttar Pradesh is also witnessing significant contests, with BJP veteran Hema Malini seeking a third term from Mathura. Meerut marks the electoral debut of BJP's Arun Govil, known for his portrayal of Lord Rama in the Ramayan television series.
Accusations and Allegations Emerge
The second phase has witnessed a verbal battle between the BJP and the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in West Bengal. The TMC has accused central forces of attempting to undermine the democratic process, while the BJP has countered with claims of TMC influencing the polls.
Prominent Candidates Express Confidence
Congress's Jalore candidate Vaibhav Gehlot has expressed confidence about his party's prospects, while West Bengal BJP chief Sukanta Majumdar has condemned TMC's alleged attempts to sway voters.
Key Developments
- Voting is underway in all 88 constituencies, including 20 in Kerala, where Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and opposition leader VD Satheesan have cast their votes.n- Vaibhav Gehlot, the Congress candidate in Rajasthan's Jalore, has highlighted the enthusiasm among voters.n- A war of words has erupted in West Bengal, with the TMC alleging interference by central forces and the BJP accusing the TMC of distributing money among voters.n- Sukanta Majumdar, seeking re-election from Balurghat, faces a tough battle in the Darjeeling seat.n- Rahul Gandhi's re-election bid in Wayanad is being closely watched, as is the contest between Tharoor and Chandrasekhar in Thiruvananthapuram.n- Hema Malini seeks a hat-trick in Mathura, while Arun Govil's electoral debut in Meerut has drawn attention.n- A total of 1,210 candidates are vying for votes in the phase, with the BSP fielding the most candidates at 74.
As polling continues, the outcome of the second phase will shape the political landscape in India, further intensifying the electoral battle for control of the Lok Sabha.'
