As India approaches the sixth phase of the general elections this Saturday, May 25, anticipation builds. This phase will see the national capital, Delhi, with its seven parliamentary seats, joining the electoral fray. The Election Commission of India (ECI) reports that 889 candidates from eight states and union territories will compete in this phase of the Lok Sabha elections.
Voter Turnout and Election Overview
With five out of seven phases completed, the voter turnout is around 62.2%, slightly below the 64.16% turnout recorded in the 2019 elections for the same period. This ongoing electoral exercise underscores the dynamic and often contentious nature of Indian democracy.
Key Highlights for Phase 6
1. Prime Minister Modi’s Campaign Trail Prime Minister Narendra Modi is intensifying his campaign efforts in Haryana and Punjab. Today, he will kick off his campaign in Patiala, with rallies scheduled in Gurdaspur and Jalandhar on Friday. The polling for Punjab’s 13 Lok Sabha seats is set for June 1.
2. Farmers’ Protest In a significant development, farmer leader Balbir Singh Rajewal announced plans for farmers to display black flags during PM Modi’s campaign in Punjab. This decision emerged from a rally organized by the Samyukta Kisan Morcha in Jagraon, Ludhiana district, signaling ongoing farmer dissent.
3. Delhi Metro Preparations To accommodate the sixth phase of voting, Delhi Metro train services will commence at 4 am on election day. This early start allows election duty staff to utilize the service, with trains running at a 30-minute frequency until 6 am. Normal services will resume afterward, ensuring smooth transport for voters, as confirmed by the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC).
4. Water Supply Controversy Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has refuted allegations from Delhi Minister Atishi, who accused the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) of orchestrating a conspiracy with the BJP to halt Delhi’s water supply ahead of the May 25 vote. Saini dismissed these claims as baseless, accusing AAP of spreading misinformation.
Looking Ahead
As India inches closer to the culmination of its massive electoral process, each phase brings its own set of challenges and developments. The sixth phase promises to be a critical juncture, not just for the participating candidates but also for the electorate, as the nation watches closely.