Today marks the commencement of the first phase of voting for the 18th Lok Sabha elections across 21 states and Union territories in India. A voter turnout of nearly 40% was recorded by 1 pm. Over 16.63 crore voters, including more than 8 crore men and women each, are expected to cast their votes at almost 2 lakh polling stations.
Several prominent figures, including Union ministers Nitin Gadkari, Bhupendra Yadav, Kiren Rijiju, and others, are contesting in this phase. The BJP-led NDA is aiming for a stronger majority, while the opposition INDIA bloc is hoping for a resurgence. The results of the elections, which will elect 543 members to the Lok Sabha, will be announced on June 4.
