Second phase of Lok Sabha polls sees 61 pc turnout till 7 pm, polling now complete in 14 states, UTs

New Delhi [India], April 26 (ANI): The second phase of Lok Sabha polls on Friday saw nearly 61 per cent turnout till 7 pm with polling now complete in 14 states and union territories.
The polling was peaceful and 102 villages in Bastar division witnessed polling in Lok Sabha for the first time.
The voting in the second phase of general elections 2024 commenced at 7 am today across 88 constituencies in 13 states and union territories.
Voters enthusiastically participated to cast their vote at their polling stations braving the hot weather conditions.
From newlyweds to senior citizens, tribals to IT professionals, PwDs, women and youngsters, all were seen in queues waiting to cast their vote. "Polling was held smoothly and peacefully in all states and UTs," an official release said.
It said that a turnout of 60.96 per cent was recorded till 7 pm.
The Election Commission constantly monitored the polling process since morning.
"Stringent security measures were implemented to maintain law and order, creating a conducive environment for voters to cast their vote without fear or intimidation," the release said. Webcasting was done in over one lakh polling stations.
Polling time was extended till 6 pm in many polling stations in Banka, Madhepura, Khagaria and Munger constituencies in Bihar to facilitate voters in hot weather conditions. Special arrangements were made to combat the heat including provision of shamiyana, drinking water, medical kits and fans for convenience of voters.
Many voters as also some polling officials came in their traditional attire to celebrate the "Chunav ka Parv". In Sikar, Rajasthan, women voters came in their traditional attire braving the heat. In Varuna constituency in Karnataka, polling staff dressed in traditional attire welcomed the voters.
"In phase two, voters from 46 villages in Bastar and Kanker parliamentary constituencies in Chhattisgarh cast their vote in a polling booth set up in their village for the first time in a Lok Sabha Election. Including phase one, overall, 102 new polling stations were set up for the first time in these PCs for the convenience of villagers," the release said.
The poll panel had made special efforts to facilitate voting amongst the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTGs), elderly, young and first-time voters, women, and transgenders.
Cricketing superstars Anil Kumble, Rahul Dravid and Javagal Srinath among others were seen voting at different polling stations in Bengaluru. Striking a pose with their inked fingers, they carried the message of the importance of participation in the electoral process to the youth. Voting for the first phase of Lok Sabha polls was done on April 19.
Lok Sabha polls are being held across seven phases till June 1 and votes will be counted on June 4. (ANI)