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Voting has begun for 102 parliamentary seats across 21 states/UTs in the first phase of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Watch to know more.

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Voting underway in 8 of 80 constituencies: Uttar Pradesh

The voting for phase 1 of Lok Sabha elections of 2024 is underway in Bastar in the central Indian state of Chhattisgarh on Friday (Apr 19). The voting is taking place under heavy security as it comes a day after 29 Maoists were killed in an encounter with security forces in the region.

The state of Chhattisgarh, which has 11 Lok Sabha seats, will vote in three phases on April 19, 26 and May 7 of Lok Sabha elections.

&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/india-election-2024/chhattisgarh-lok-sabha-elections-2024-schedule-phase-seats-and-all-you-need-to-know-703897" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-election-2024/chhattisgarh-lok-sabha-elections-2024-schedule-phase-seats-and-all-you-need-to-know-703897&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjEh8-mjMmFAxVBTWcHHTmABUMQFnoECAYQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw1h3jMLUXOiV-cMQ7LrgbAN&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-election-2024/chhattisgarh-lok-sabha-elections-2024-schedule-phase-seats-and-all-you-need-to-know-703897" target="_blank">Chhattisgarh&nbsp;Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Schedule, phase, seats</a>

The Bastar-Jagdalpur (ST) Lok Sabha constituency lies at the core of the state's tribal community.

It holds the status of a Scheduled Tribe (ST) reserved constituency, covering Bastar-Jagdalpur and Bijapur districts, as well as Dantewada, Narayanpur, and Sukma districts.

Here are the key candidates

Mahesh Kashyap&nbsp;

In this election, the ruling party BJP has fielded Mahesh Kashyap as its candidate. While there were several notable contenders, such as former MPs and seasoned politicians like Kedar Kashyap and Dinesh Kashyap, the BJP chose Mahesh, a youthful and committed member with a solid background in the Vishwa Hindu Parishad and Bajrang Dal.

Mahesh Kashyap is currently the District President of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Scheduled Tribe Morcha and also the State Vice President of Sarva Adivasi Tribal Samaj.&nbsp;

He has been raising his voice against the conversion of tribals under the banner of Bastar Cultural Forum.

Kawasi Lakhma

Congress decided to field Kawasi Lakhma as their candidate in Bastar. Lakhma is a experienced politician with a strong connection to the region. He has an undefeated track record as MLA. Lakhma’s popularity stems from his ability to connect with the people on a personal level.

Kawasi Lakhma is a cabinet minister in Chhattisgarh. He has been elected from the Konta constituency five times.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/india-election-2024/assam-lok-sabha-elections-2024-schedule-phase-seats-and-all-you-need-to-know-703876" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-election-2024/assam-lok-sabha-elections-2024-schedule-phase-seats-and-all-you-need-to-know-703876&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjWjNibjMmFAxXTcvUHHTbHAHoQFnoECAUQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2EmiaMre7yolcxIBi8MH3J&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-election-2024/assam-lok-sabha-elections-2024-schedule-phase-seats-and-all-you-need-to-know-703876" target="_blank">Assam&nbsp;Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Schedule, phases, seats</a>

He is a tribal leader. He was elected as an MLA in 2003 with a huge margin. Lakhma had raised questions on the quality of development activities in Naxalism-hit Sukma district of Chhattisgarh.&nbsp;

He is the cabinet minister of Commercial Tax, Commerce and Industry in the Chhattisgarh government. The Konta constituency is a part of the Sukma district.&nbsp;In 2018, Kawasi Lakhma won from the seat

(With inputs from agencies)

The voting for phase 1 of Lok Sabha elections of 2024 is underway in Bastar in the central Indian state of Chhattisgarh on Friday (Apr 19). The voting is taking place under heavy security as it comes a day after 29 Maoists were killed in an encounter with security forces in the region.

The voting for phase 1 of Lok Sabha elections of 2024 is underway in Bastar in the central Indian state of Chhattisgarh on Friday (Apr 19). The voting is taking place under heavy security as it comes a day after 29 Maoists were killed in an encounter with security forces in the region. The state of Chhattisgarh, which has 11 Lok Sabha seats, will vote in three phases on April 19, 26 and May 7 of Lok Sabha elections. Also read: Chhattisgarh Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Schedule, phase, seats The Bastar-Jagdalpur (ST) Lok Sabha constituency lies at the core of the state's tribal community. It holds the status of a Scheduled Tribe (ST) reserved constituency, covering Bastar-Jagdalpur and Bijapur districts, as well as Dantewada, Narayanpur, and Sukma districts. Here are the key candidates Mahesh Kashyap In this election, the ruling party BJP has fielded Mahesh Kashyap as its candidate. While there were several notable contenders, such as former MPs and seasoned politicians like Kedar Kashyap and Dinesh Kashyap, the BJP chose Mahesh, a youthful and committed member with a solid background in the Vishwa Hindu Parishad and Bajrang Dal. Mahesh Kashyap is currently the District President of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Scheduled Tribe Morcha and also the State Vice President of Sarva Adivasi Tribal Samaj. He has been raising his voice against the conversion of tribals under the banner of Bastar Cultural Forum. Kawasi Lakhma Congress decided to field Kawasi Lakhma as their candidate in Bastar. Lakhma is a experienced politician with a strong connection to the region. He has an undefeated track record as MLA. Lakhma’s popularity stems from his ability to connect with the people on a personal level. Kawasi Lakhma is a cabinet minister in Chhattisgarh. He has been elected from the Konta constituency five times. Also read: Assam Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Schedule, phases, seats He is a tribal leader. He was elected as an MLA in 2003 with a huge margin. Lakhma had raised questions on the quality of development activities in Naxalism-hit Sukma district of Chhattisgarh. He is the cabinet minister of Commercial Tax, Commerce and Industry in the Chhattisgarh government. The Konta constituency is a part of the Sukma district. In 2018, Kawasi Lakhma won from the seat (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha polls 2024: Chhattisgarh Phase 1 voting underway. Here are the key candidates

As the voters in the world’s largest democracy headed to the polls, six districts in the Indian state of Nagaland, on Friday (Apr 19) reported zero per cent voter turnout following the election boycott called by the Eastern Nagaland People’s Front (ENPO).&nbsp;

<h2>Nagaland Lok Sabha Elections Phase 1</h2>

Nagaland, which has only one Lok Sabha seat, wrapped up its voting in the first and only phase. However, polling personnel in six eastern districts of Nagaland waited for nine hours in booths, but none of the over 400,000 voters they were expecting showed up.&nbsp;

The polling started at 7:00 am (local time) hours after a ‘public emergency’ declared by the ENPO which demanded a separate administration of Frontier Nagaland Territory (FNT) with more financial autonomy.&nbsp;

The ENPO is the apex body of the seven tribal organisations in the eastern region. A report by PTI citing officials said there was no movement of people or vehicles on major streets in eastern Nagaland.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-election-2024/nagaland-lok-sabha-elections-2024-check-schedule-phases-constituencies-candidates-and-all-you-need-to-know-705112">Nagaland Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Date, schedule, phase, constituencies, candidates and all you need to know</a>

Between 7:00 am and 4:00 pm (local time), the Additional Chief Electoral Officer of Nagaland Awa Loring said that the polling personnel were present in the 738 polling stations in the region.&nbsp;

The six districts in question have 400,632 out of the 13.2 million voters in the state.&nbsp;

Notably, a report by news agency PTI citing sources at the chief electoral officer’s office said the 20 MLAs of Nagaland also did not show up to vote in those nine hours.&nbsp;

<h2>No issue with the demand: CM</h2>

Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, on Friday, said that the state government does not have a problem with the ENPO’s demand for FNT and has recommended an autonomous body so that the region gets sufficient economic packages.&nbsp;

Rio, speaking to reporters after casting his vote at his village in Touphema, said that he&nbsp;had accepted the draft working paper for FNT which was handed over to him in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

The group has demanded&nbsp;separation after alleging that the successive governments did not bring about socio-economic development in the region.

<h2>‘Undue influence’</h2>

Nagaland Chief Electoral Officer Vayasan R issued a show cause notice to the ENPO, on Thursday (Apr 18) night after it called for boycotting the vote.&nbsp;

Under sub-section (1) of Section 171C of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), “Whoever voluntarily interferes or attempts to interfere with the free exercise of any electoral right commits the offence of undue influence at an election.”

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mizoram-security-personnel-succumbs-to-cardiac-arrest-while-on-election-duty-713152">Mizoram: Security personnel succumbs to cardiac arrest while on election duty</a>

However, the ENPO president Tsapikiu Sangtam on Friday claimed that it does not apply in this context, saying that the public notice aimed to “reduce the possibility of disturbances in the Eastern Nagaland region, which is under our jurisdiction, and the risk linked with gatherings of anti-social elements.”&nbsp;

“Given that the shutdown was a voluntary initiative by the people, there was no question of coercion or enforcement by the ENPO or any other authority,” it added.&nbsp;

The notice was issued on Thursday night hours before the election which imposed an indefinite total shutdown in the eastern part of the state.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

As the voters in the world’s largest democracy headed to the polls, six districts in the Indian state of Nagaland, on Friday (Apr 19) reported zero per cent voter turnout following the election boycott called by the Eastern Nagaland People’s Front (ENPO).

As the voters in the world’s largest democracy headed to the polls, six districts in the Indian state of Nagaland, on Friday (Apr 19) reported zero per cent voter turnout following the election boycott called by the Eastern Nagaland People’s Front (ENPO). Nagaland Lok Sabha Elections Phase 1 Nagaland, which has only one Lok Sabha seat, wrapped up its voting in the first and only phase. However, polling personnel in six eastern districts of Nagaland waited for nine hours in booths, but none of the over 400,000 voters they were expecting showed up. The polling started at 7:00 am (local time) hours after a ‘public emergency’ declared by the ENPO which demanded a separate administration of Frontier Nagaland Territory (FNT) with more financial autonomy. The ENPO is the apex body of the seven tribal organisations in the eastern region. A report by PTI citing officials said there was no movement of people or vehicles on major streets in eastern Nagaland. Also Read | Nagaland Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Date, schedule, phase, constituencies, candidates and all you need to know Between 7:00 am and 4:00 pm (local time), the Additional Chief Electoral Officer of Nagaland Awa Loring said that the polling personnel were present in the 738 polling stations in the region. The six districts in question have 400,632 out of the 13.2 million voters in the state. Notably, a report by news agency PTI citing sources at the chief electoral officer’s office said the 20 MLAs of Nagaland also did not show up to vote in those nine hours. No issue with the demand: CM Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, on Friday, said that the state government does not have a problem with the ENPO’s demand for FNT and has recommended an autonomous body so that the region gets sufficient economic packages. Rio, speaking to reporters after casting his vote at his village in Touphema, said that he had accepted the draft working paper for FNT which was handed over to him in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah. The group has demanded separation after alleging that the successive governments did not bring about socio-economic development in the region. ‘Undue influence’ Nagaland Chief Electoral Officer Vayasan R issued a show cause notice to the ENPO, on Thursday (Apr 18) night after it called for boycotting the vote. Under sub-section (1) of Section 171C of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), “Whoever voluntarily interferes or attempts to interfere with the free exercise of any electoral right commits the offence of undue influence at an election.” Also Read | Mizoram: Security personnel succumbs to cardiac arrest while on election duty However, the ENPO president Tsapikiu Sangtam on Friday claimed that it does not apply in this context, saying that the public notice aimed to “reduce the possibility of disturbances in the Eastern Nagaland region, which is under our jurisdiction, and the risk linked with gatherings of anti-social elements.” “Given that the shutdown was a voluntary initiative by the people, there was no question of coercion or enforcement by the ENPO or any other authority,” it added. The notice was issued on Thursday night hours before the election which imposed an indefinite total shutdown in the eastern part of the state. (With inputs from agencies)

Nagaland Lok Sabha Elections Phase 1: Nearly zero per cent voting recorded in six districts

Voting for the 92 assembly seats in the state elections in Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim began today. Watch to know more.

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Two North East state of India hold state elections today

India began voting on Friday (April 19) in a six-week election. The voters began queuing up outside the polling stations even before they were allowed. Voting in 102 constituencies have begun, with 160 million voters across 17 states and 4 UTs in the first phase.

India National Elections: 2 North Eastern States of India - Sikkim & Arunachal Pradesh - hold voting

The first phase of voting for the 2024 Lok Sabha election was held&nbsp;on Friday (April 19) with large number of people coming out to vote. Footage of citizens heading to the polling stations&nbsp;dominated X, with one video featuring an elderly woman going insanely viral. The clip shows a 102-year-old woman exercising her voting rights in Tamil Nadu.

ANI shared a video of the woman with the&nbsp;caption that reads, “Lok Sabha elections 2024: 102-year-old woman walks to polling booth to cast her vote in Tamil Nadu”.

In the video, the woman is seen standing&nbsp;with a walking stick outside the polling booth. With the help of a man, she enters the booth and casts her vote.

Watch the video here:

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Dindigul, Tamil Nadu: A 102-year-old lady cast her vote at Reddiyarchatram in Dindigul district. <a href="https://t.co/zMa4589MAV">pic.twitter.com/zMa4589MAV</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1781277504533127355?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The video was uploaded a few hours ago and has already garnered over 49,000 views. Additionally, it has received nearly 5,100 likes and elicited a range of comments from viewers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-election-2024/tamil-nadu-lok-sabha-elections-2024-spotlight-on-crucial-constituencies-and-candidates-713095">Also read |&nbsp;Tamil Nadu Lok Sabha elections 2024: Spotlight on crucial constituencies and candidates</a>

“Salute to you, Amma,” wrote an Instagram user.

“She is full of energy. God bless her. May she live many more years,” posted another.

“She represents the face of Indian democracy,” shared a third.

“Amazing. If this doesn't inspire people to vote, I don't know what will,” added a fourth.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-election-2024/lok-sabha-polls-2024-first-phase-of-worlds-largest-democratic-election-underway-in-21-indian-states-712862">Also read |&nbsp;Lok Sabha Polls 2024 | World’s biggest festival of democracy begins, voting starts in 21 states of India</a>

The first phase of voting includes 102 constituencies across 21 states in India.&nbsp;These regions include Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Maharashtra, Assam, Bihar, West Bengal, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Nagaland, Tripura, Mizoram, Chhattisgarh, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Puducherry, Sikkim, Jammu and Kashmir, and Lakshadweep.

(With inputs from agencies)

The first phase of voting for the 2024 Lok Sabha election was held on Friday (April 19) with large number of people coming out to vote. Footage of citizens heading to the polling stations dominated X, with one video featuring an elderly woman going insanely viral.

The first phase of voting for the 2024 Lok Sabha election was held on Friday (April 19) with large number of people coming out to vote. Footage of citizens heading to the polling stations dominated X, with one video featuring an elderly woman going insanely viral. The clip shows a 102-year-old woman exercising her voting rights in Tamil Nadu. ANI shared a video of the woman with the caption that reads, “Lok Sabha elections 2024: 102-year-old woman walks to polling booth to cast her vote in Tamil Nadu”. In the video, the woman is seen standing with a walking stick outside the polling booth. With the help of a man, she enters the booth and casts her vote. Watch the video here: #WATCH | Dindigul, Tamil Nadu: A 102-year-old lady cast her vote at Reddiyarchatram in Dindigul district. pic.twitter.com/zMa4589MAV — ANI (@ANI) April 19, 2024 × The video was uploaded a few hours ago and has already garnered over 49,000 views. Additionally, it has received nearly 5,100 likes and elicited a range of comments from viewers. Also read | Tamil Nadu Lok Sabha elections 2024: Spotlight on crucial constituencies and candidates “Salute to you, Amma,” wrote an Instagram user. “She is full of energy. God bless her. May she live many more years,” posted another. “She represents the face of Indian democracy,” shared a third. “Amazing. If this doesn't inspire people to vote, I don't know what will,” added a fourth. Also read | Lok Sabha Polls 2024 | World’s biggest festival of democracy begins, voting starts in 21 states of India The first phase of voting includes 102 constituencies across 21 states in India. These regions include Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Maharashtra, Assam, Bihar, West Bengal, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Nagaland, Tripura, Mizoram, Chhattisgarh, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Puducherry, Sikkim, Jammu and Kashmir, and Lakshadweep. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha elections 2024: 102-year-old woman heads to polling booth to vote in Tamil Nadu. WATCH

Jammu and Kashmir's Udhampur is voting in the first phase of the Lok Sabha elections in India. Udhampur began vote on Friday (Apr 19- the first phase), and the counting of votes in the constituency will be done on June 4.

Jammu and Kashmir's Udhampur is voting in the first phase of the Lok Sabha elections in India. Udhampur began vote on Friday (Apr 19- the first phase), and the counting of votes in the constituency will be done on June 4. This is the first time Udhampur is witnessing elections since the abrogation of Article 370 by the Modi government. The Udhampur seat holds immense significance in Kashmir and is the second-largest Lok Sabha constituency in the Valley. The notification for the constituency was issued on March 20 while March 27 was the last date for filing nominations. The last date for withdrawal of candidature was March 30. Key candidates in Udhampur for 2024 polls In this year's election, the constituency will witness a direct fight between Union Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Dr Jitendra Singh and Congress leader Choudhary Lal Singh. Dr Singh emerged victorious in Udhampur in 2019 and 2014 elections as well. The other crucial candidate in Udhampur this time is the Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP) leader Ghulam Mohammad Saroori. 'There is no other competition' Dr Singh is seeking a hat-trick win from Udhampur this year. Speaking to the Hindustan Times on Sunday (April 14), the Union minister said that his voter percentage would certainly increase. "This time, we are competing with ourselves and there is no other competition,” Singh told the publication. Last week, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a rally in Udhampur where he said that assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir would soon be held, and statehood would be restored. Modi said that he would get rid of the problems the Valley has been facing for decades. The prime minister also challenged other political parties, especially the Congress, to dare to restore Article 370.

Lok Sabha elections 2024: Jammu and Kashmir's Udhampur votes in phase 1. Here are the key candidates

Preparations for the Lok Sabha Elections 2024 are underway in northeast India, with authorities overcoming difficult terrain and weather conditions. The Election Commission of India (ECI) is facing logistical challenges as officials have to travel for hours to reach outlying polling sites.

Preparations for the Lok Sabha Elections 2024 are underway in northeast India, with authorities overcoming difficult terrain and weather conditions. The Election Commission of India (ECI) is facing logistical challenges as officials have to travel for hours to reach outlying polling sites. Deployment and security measures Elections for the state assembly and Lok Sabha are scheduled to be held concurrently in Arunachal Pradesh, where 11,130 poll workers and 6,874 electronic voting machines (EVMs) have been deployed. The Union Home Ministry has assigned 80 companies, totalling 7,500 Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) officers, to oversee peace and order throughout the election process. Traversing hazardous terrain Videos and images showing the journeys of election officials are making rounds on social media. "A polling team traverses difficult terrain to reach their respective polling booth in East Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh for polling in Lok Sabha elections tomorrow, 19th April," ANI wrote on X. #WATCH | A polling team traverses difficult terrain to reach their respective polling booth in East Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh for polling in Lok Sabha elections tomorrow, 19th April (Video source: CEO, Arunachal Pradesh) pic.twitter.com/tHVPPkBKXe — ANI (@ANI) April 18, 2024 × Also read: Indian election commission rejects claims over EVM error that 'favoured' BJP Ready for the polls Poll workers are being sent to outlying regions of the state in advance for the elections as two Lok Sabha seats are going to the polls in a single phase on April 19. Election schedule Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar announced the election schedule on March 16, 2024. The voting process will unfold over seven phases, commencing on April 19 and concluding on June 1. The phases are scheduled as follows: April 19 (Phase 1), April 26 (Phase 2), May 7 (Phase 3), May 13 (Phase 4), May 20 (Phase 5), May 25 (Phase 6), and June 1 (Phase 7). Results for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections will be unveiled on June 4.

Watch | Poll officials brave challenging terrain to reach polling stations in northeast India

India National Elections 2024: Voting begins in India, 160 mn voters across 17 states, 4 UTs

The voting for the first phase of the 18th Lok Sabha elections has wrapped up in all 39 constituencies of Tamil Nadu. Around 62.3 million voters will determine the fate of 950 candidates across 68,000 polling stations. It marks a three-way contest between the incumbent Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

During the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the DMK-led coalition secured a landslide victory in the state, claiming 38 out of 39 seats. The DMK itself won 24 seats, with the Congress securing eight seats, and the CPI and CPM each obtaining two seats. Additionally, the VCK and IUML each won one seat.

The BJP, which failed to win any seats previously, has made significant investments in Tamil Nadu for this election.

Follow<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-election-2024-live-voting-up-rajasthan-bihar-mp-maharashtra-tamil-nadu-nagaland-sikkim-mizoram-712699"> this live blog</a> for all the latest updates on phase 1 of the Lok Sabha elections 2024

<h2>Here are some key candidates and constituencies to watch out for in Tamil Nadu:</h2>

Coimbatore: This bustling hub in western Tamil Nadu is an important electoral battle field. State BJP chief K Annamalai is in the running, facing off against DMK leader Ganapathy P Rajkumar and AIADMK's Singai Ramachandran. Annamalai, who left his post as an IPS officer to enter politics, has pledged to bring the Indian Institute of Management, as well as the offices of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), to Coimbatore.

Thoothukkudi: Situated in southern Tamil Nadu, this constituency boasts a diverse field of 28 contenders, including DMK leader and incumbent MP Kanimozhi, who triumphed over BJP's Tamilisai Soundararajan in 2019.

Chennai Central: With six assembly constituencies under its purview, this seat is a tight competition&nbsp;between BJP's Vinoj P Selvam and DMK's former Union minister Dayanidhi Maran.

Nilgiris: Anticipate a triangular tussle here, with DMK's A Raja, AIADMK's Logesh Tamil Selvan, and BJP's L Murugan vying for victory.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-fortune-teller-arrested-for-predicting-cuddalore-pmk-candidates-victory-in-lok-sabha-polls-709717">Also read |&nbsp;Tamil Nadu fortune teller arrested for predicting Cuddalore PMK candidate’s victory in Lok Sabha polls</a>

Chennai South: Former Telangana Governor and BJP stalwart Tamilisai Soundararajan is making her bid here, going up against DMK's T Sumathy and former AIADMK MP J Jayavardhan.

Ramanathapuram: Former Tamil Nadu chief minister O Paneerselvam (OPS) has thrown his hat into the ring in this constituency, competing against AIADMK's Jayaperumal and K Navaskani from the Indian Union Muslim League.

Sivaganga: Expect a three-way battle in this constituency, with incumbent Congress MP Karti Chidambaram, BJP's Devanathan Yadav, and AIADMK's A Xavierdas vying for victory.

(With inputs from agencies)

The voting for the first phase of the 18th Lok Sabha elections has wrapped up in all 39 constituencies of Tamil Nadu. Around 62.3 million voters will determine the fate of 950 candidates across 68,000 polling stations.

The voting for the first phase of the 18th Lok Sabha elections has wrapped up in all 39 constituencies of Tamil Nadu. Around 62.3 million voters will determine the fate of 950 candidates across 68,000 polling stations. It marks a three-way contest between the incumbent Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). During the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the DMK-led coalition secured a landslide victory in the state, claiming 38 out of 39 seats. The DMK itself won 24 seats, with the Congress securing eight seats, and the CPI and CPM each obtaining two seats. Additionally, the VCK and IUML each won one seat. The BJP, which failed to win any seats previously, has made significant investments in Tamil Nadu for this election. Follow this live blog for all the latest updates on phase 1 of the Lok Sabha elections 2024 Here are some key candidates and constituencies to watch out for in Tamil Nadu: Coimbatore: This bustling hub in western Tamil Nadu is an important electoral battle field. State BJP chief K Annamalai is in the running, facing off against DMK leader Ganapathy P Rajkumar and AIADMK's Singai Ramachandran. Annamalai, who left his post as an IPS officer to enter politics, has pledged to bring the Indian Institute of Management, as well as the offices of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), to Coimbatore. Thoothukkudi: Situated in southern Tamil Nadu, this constituency boasts a diverse field of 28 contenders, including DMK leader and incumbent MP Kanimozhi, who triumphed over BJP's Tamilisai Soundararajan in 2019. Chennai Central: With six assembly constituencies under its purview, this seat is a tight competition between BJP's Vinoj P Selvam and DMK's former Union minister Dayanidhi Maran. Nilgiris: Anticipate a triangular tussle here, with DMK's A Raja, AIADMK's Logesh Tamil Selvan, and BJP's L Murugan vying for victory. Also read | Tamil Nadu fortune teller arrested for predicting Cuddalore PMK candidate’s victory in Lok Sabha polls Chennai South: Former Telangana Governor and BJP stalwart Tamilisai Soundararajan is making her bid here, going up against DMK's T Sumathy and former AIADMK MP J Jayavardhan. Ramanathapuram: Former Tamil Nadu chief minister O Paneerselvam (OPS) has thrown his hat into the ring in this constituency, competing against AIADMK's Jayaperumal and K Navaskani from the Indian Union Muslim League. Sivaganga: Expect a three-way battle in this constituency, with incumbent Congress MP Karti Chidambaram, BJP's Devanathan Yadav, and AIADMK's A Xavierdas vying for victory. (With inputs from agencies)

Tamil Nadu Lok Sabha elections 2024: Spotlight on crucial constituencies and candidates

Voting is underway for 102 parliamentary seats across 21 states/Union Territories in the first phase of the India's 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Watch in the report for latest developments.

Lok Sabha Election 2024: Phase 1 of elections underway, fate of 1,625 candidates to be decided

Assam Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Phase 1: The general elections in the Indian state of Assam, which has 14 Lok Sabha seats, the highest number in the Northeastern region, will be held in three phases: April 19, April 26 and May 7. The results will be declared on June 4.

Voting is underway in five constituencies in the first phase of the election which is taking place on Friday (Apr 19).&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Lok Sabha Elections 2024: PM Modi holds mega roadshow in Assam

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In the 2014 and 2019 elections, the historically Congress-dominated state witnessed a shift. In 2014, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won seven of the 14 seats; that number rose five years later when it managed to secure a total of nine seats.&nbsp;

<h2>Assam Lok Sabha Election 2024 Phase 1: Constituencies</h2>

Kaziranga 
Sonitpur 
Lakhimpur 
Dibrugarh 
Jorhat

<h2>Assam Lok Sabha Election 2024 Phase 1: Candidates</h2>

One of the prominent names in this race is Pradan Baruah from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) who is contesting for the Lakhimpur seat. The other candidates contesting from the constituency are Ghana Kanta Chutia of Trinamool Congress (TMC), Uday Shankar Hazarika (Congress), and Biren Kachari of the Communist Party of India (CPI).&nbsp;

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-election-2024/assam-lok-sabha-elections-2024-dates-schedule-phases-seats-and-all-you-need-to-know-703876">&nbsp;Assam Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Dates, Schedule, phases, seats and all you need to know</a>

The fight is mainly between BJP and Congress in all constituencies except Dibrugarh, where Lurinjyoti Gogoi of Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP) will challenge Union Minister for Shipping and Waterways and BJP candidate Sarbananda Sonowal.&nbsp;

In Jorhat, BJP has fielded former state power minister Topon Kumar Gogoi against firebrand Congress leader and former Assam Chief Minister’s son Gaurav Gogoi.&nbsp;

Notably, Assam will also see some of the richest candidates in the race with at least 15 of the 35 being millionaires who are going to face off against each other in the first phase, according to news agency PTI.&nbsp;

Diluwara Begum Chowdhury, an independent female candidate, who is contesting for the Kaziranga seat is the richest among the 35.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/lok-sabha-election-2024">Click Here to get the latest updates of the 2024 Lok Sabha election.&nbsp;</a>

According to media reports, most opinion polls have predicted that the BJP will have a clean sweep by winning at least 11 out of the 14 seats.&nbsp;

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma recently held a roadshow in Tinsukia district with Union Home Minister Amit Shah and expressed confidence that BJP would win at least 12 seats this election.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Assam Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Phase 1: The general elections in the Indian state of Assam, which has 14 Lok Sabha seats, the highest number in the Northeastern region, will be held in three phases: April 19, April 26 and May 7.

Assam Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Phase 1: The general elections in the Indian state of Assam, which has 14 Lok Sabha seats, the highest number in the Northeastern region, will be held in three phases: April 19, April 26 and May 7. The results will be declared on June 4. Voting is underway in five constituencies in the first phase of the election which is taking place on Friday (Apr 19). WATCH | Lok Sabha Elections 2024: PM Modi holds mega roadshow in Assam In the 2014 and 2019 elections, the historically Congress-dominated state witnessed a shift. In 2014, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won seven of the 14 seats; that number rose five years later when it managed to secure a total of nine seats. Assam Lok Sabha Election 2024 Phase 1: Constituencies Kaziranga Sonitpur Lakhimpur Dibrugarh Jorhat Assam Lok Sabha Election 2024 Phase 1: Candidates One of the prominent names in this race is Pradan Baruah from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) who is contesting for the Lakhimpur seat. The other candidates contesting from the constituency are Ghana Kanta Chutia of Trinamool Congress (TMC), Uday Shankar Hazarika (Congress), and Biren Kachari of the Communist Party of India (CPI). Also Read | Assam Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Dates, Schedule, phases, seats and all you need to know The fight is mainly between BJP and Congress in all constituencies except Dibrugarh, where Lurinjyoti Gogoi of Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP) will challenge Union Minister for Shipping and Waterways and BJP candidate Sarbananda Sonowal. In Jorhat, BJP has fielded former state power minister Topon Kumar Gogoi against firebrand Congress leader and former Assam Chief Minister’s son Gaurav Gogoi. Notably, Assam will also see some of the richest candidates in the race with at least 15 of the 35 being millionaires who are going to face off against each other in the first phase, according to news agency PTI. Diluwara Begum Chowdhury, an independent female candidate, who is contesting for the Kaziranga seat is the richest among the 35. Click Here to get the latest updates of the 2024 Lok Sabha election. According to media reports, most opinion polls have predicted that the BJP will have a clean sweep by winning at least 11 out of the 14 seats. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma recently held a roadshow in Tinsukia district with Union Home Minister Amit Shah and expressed confidence that BJP would win at least 12 seats this election. (With inputs from agencies)

Assam Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Phase 1 voting underway: Key candidates and constituencies

Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court on Friday (Apr 19) reserved the order on a plea moved by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal seeking direction to Jail Authorities to administer insulin.&nbsp;

Kejriwal is also seeking approval for a consultation through video conferencing daily for 15 minutes with respect to his acute diabetes and fluctuating blood sugar level.&nbsp;

After hearing the submissions from all sides, Special Judge Kaveri Baweja said, "I will pass the order on April 22, 2024. Meanwhile asked Tihar and ED to file a detailed reply by tomorrow."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-recalls-indias-everest-masala-claims-it-is-unfit-for-human-consumption-712919">Singapore recalls India's Everest Masala, claims it is 'unfit for human consumption'</a>&nbsp;

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday said in court that Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was deliberately eating mangoes, sweets, and other high-carb food to raise his blood sugar level to build a case for bail.&nbsp;

Special Counsel Zoheb Hossain for ED told Special Judge Rakesh Syal of Rouse Avenue Court that Kejriwal is doing this to create grounds for bail.&nbsp;

The counsel said that the Delhi chief minister has been consuming mangoes, sweets, etc., in jail irrespective of saying that he has high sugar levels.&nbsp;

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After ED's claim, Delhi Minister Atishi on Thursday alleged that there is a "huge conspiracy" to kill Kejriwal. She further claimed that the Delhi Chief Minister was denied "access to home-cooked food and insulin while in jail".&nbsp;

"For the past several days, his blood sugar level has been consistently above 300 mg/dL. Despite Kejriwal's repeated requests, he is not being given insulin, and his sugar level is increasing. He is not being given medication because there is a plot to kill him," she alleged.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;India's skills gap challenge: India's economy and the youth 'currency'&nbsp;

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Atishi's claims were rejected by the Tihar jail administration as they said that his fasting sugar level remained within acceptable parameters and never exceeded 300.&nbsp;

As reported by PTI, citing a jail official based on anonymity, "As per the court orders, he has been served home-cooked food and medicines. His health is being watched and looked after by two doctors in the jail."&nbsp;

"The Tihar jail has 250 patients having sugar issues, which include Kejriwal. All of them are looked after by the doctors in their jails," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court on Friday (Apr 19) reserved the order on a plea moved by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal seeking direction to Jail Authorities to administer insulin.

Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court on Friday (Apr 19) reserved the order on a plea moved by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal seeking direction to Jail Authorities to administer insulin. Kejriwal is also seeking approval for a consultation through video conferencing daily for 15 minutes with respect to his acute diabetes and fluctuating blood sugar level. After hearing the submissions from all sides, Special Judge Kaveri Baweja said, "I will pass the order on April 22, 2024. Meanwhile asked Tihar and ED to file a detailed reply by tomorrow." Also read: Singapore recalls India's Everest Masala, claims it is 'unfit for human consumption' The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday said in court that Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was deliberately eating mangoes, sweets, and other high-carb food to raise his blood sugar level to build a case for bail. Special Counsel Zoheb Hossain for ED told Special Judge Rakesh Syal of Rouse Avenue Court that Kejriwal is doing this to create grounds for bail. The counsel said that the Delhi chief minister has been consuming mangoes, sweets, etc., in jail irrespective of saying that he has high sugar levels. Also read: Waqf Board Case: ED questions Amanatullah Khan, AAP attacks Centre After ED's claim, Delhi Minister Atishi on Thursday alleged that there is a "huge conspiracy" to kill Kejriwal. She further claimed that the Delhi Chief Minister was denied "access to home-cooked food and insulin while in jail". "For the past several days, his blood sugar level has been consistently above 300 mg/dL. Despite Kejriwal's repeated requests, he is not being given insulin, and his sugar level is increasing. He is not being given medication because there is a plot to kill him," she alleged. Watch: India's skills gap challenge: India's economy and the youth 'currency' × Atishi's claims were rejected by the Tihar jail administration as they said that his fasting sugar level remained within acceptable parameters and never exceeded 300. As reported by PTI, citing a jail official based on anonymity, "As per the court orders, he has been served home-cooked food and medicines. His health is being watched and looked after by two doctors in the jail." "The Tihar jail has 250 patients having sugar issues, which include Kejriwal. All of them are looked after by the doctors in their jails," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Arvind Kejriwal health: Court reserves order on plea moved by Delhi CM

Lok Sabha Election 2024: Sporadic incidents of violence reported from West Bengal

Uttar Pradesh Lok Sabha Elections 2024: The first phase of Lok Sabha Elections 2024 is underway in north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh on Friday (Apr 19). UP is the most significant politically, as it holds 80 seats in the Lok Sabha, the largest number for a single state.

Uttar Pradesh Lok Sabha Elections 2024: The first phase of Lok Sabha Elections 2024 is underway in north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh on Friday (Apr 19). UP is the most significant politically, as it holds 80 seats in the Lok Sabha, the largest number for a single state. The state see voting in all seven phases of the general elections. In the first phase, eight constituencies in western Uttar Pradesh are going to polls. Here's the list of UP constituencies that will vote in the first phase of elections: Saharanpur Kairana Bijnor Muzaffarnagar Nagina Moradabad Rampur Pilibhit In the 2019 elections, the ruling party BJP secured only three seats out of these eight constituencies; Muzaffarnagar, Pilibhit and Kairana. The Samajwadi Party won the Moradabad and Rampur seats, and the Bahujan Samaj Party won the Saharanpur, Nijnor and Nagina seats. However, the Bharatiya Janata Party defeated the Samajwadi Party during the 2022 by-polls in Rampur. Uttar Pradesh Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Key Candidates And Constituencies Pilibhit: The election contest in Pilibhit will be interesting as the Bharatiya Janata Party has fielded Jitin Prasada, who was once a close aide of Rahul Gandhi. BJP's decision to field Prasada has caused a fair amount of buzz as the constituency was represented by Varun Gandhi, who has been sidelined in the upcoming elections. Moreover, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath campaigned aggressively for Prasada, whose main competitors will be Bhagwat Saran Gangwar of SP and Anis Ahmed Khan of BSP. Rampur: Jailed SP leader, Azam Khan, once had a stronghold over Rampur. This time, his close aide, Mohibullah Nadvi, a cleric of a mosque located on Delhi's Parliament Street, is contesting the elections from the Samajwadi Party. Ghanshyam Lodhi will be contesting from BJP and Zeeshan Khan from BSP. Muzaffarnagar: This constituency will witness a three-cornered electoral battle with Union Minister Sanjeev Baliyan squaring off against SP's Harindra Malik and BSP's Dara Singh Prajapati. Saharanpur: Known as the "serial number one seat" in Uttar Pradesh, Saharanpur is a key battleground constituency. In the past decades, the seat has oscillated between SP, BJP and BSP. In 2014, BJP's Lakhanpal won the seat, but BSP's candidate, Haji Fazlur Rehman, won the seat in 2019. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Uttar Pradesh votes on Phase 1. Check key candidates and constituencies

India is gearing up for one of its biggest elections in the upcoming month with 28 states and eight Union Territories going to polls. The seven-phase Lok Sabha elections are set to begin on April 19, with many states going for the simultaneous Assembly and Lok Sabha Polls.&nbsp;

Arunachal Pradesh will also go in simultaneous elections on April 19, officials announced on March 31. A total of 133 candidates will contest polls for the 50 Assembly constituencies in the state. The ruling-state party BJP has already won 10 seats of the 60-member assembly uncontested. Among those who won are Chief Minister Pema Khandu, and the first two-time candidates - Ratu Techi and Hage Appa from Sagalee and Ziro-Hapoli seats consecutively.&nbsp;

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Arunachal Pradesh has only two constituencies - Arunachal West and Arunachal East.&nbsp;

In the 2014 elections, Kiren Rijiju of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) emerged victorious in the Arunachal West Lok Sabha constituency, defeating Nabam Tuki of the Indian National Congress (INC).

Tapir Gao from the BJP clinched victory in the Arunachal East Lok Sabha constituency triumphing over Lowangcha Wanglat of the INC by a significant margin of 69,948 votes.

Here are the key candidates contesting elections in Arunachal Pradesh:

<h2>Arunachal Pradesh Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Key candidates&nbsp;</h2>

<h3>Kiren Rijiju</h3>

Kiren Rijiju is the current cabinet minister of Earth and Sciences in the NDA government since 2023. He has been a Member of Parliament (MP) since 2014, representing Arunachal West. Earlier, he served as the Minister of State for Home Affairs from 2014 to 2019. He also served as the Law Minister from 2021 to 2023.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/patanjali-misleading-ads-case-supreme-court-adjourns-ramdev-contempt-case-to-april-23-711799">You are not so innocent, Supreme Court tells Patanjali in misleading ads case</a>

His tenure as Law Minister was marked by controversies. In 2022, Kiren called the collegium system of appointment of judges in the Indian judicial system “opaque”, implying that appointments are done on personal networks rather than merit.&nbsp;

<h3>Tapir Gao</h3>

Tapir&nbsp;Gao leads the BJP unit in Arunachal East in the state. He was a member of the 14th Lok Sabha representing the Arunachal East constituency for BJP. He lost that seat in 2009 and 2014 but was elected to Lok Sabha for the second time in 2019. Gao was also the General Secretary of the BJP in 2011 and is currently a national executive member of the BJP.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/for-malaysians-every-north-indian-is-a-bengali-googles-former-md-explains-ethnicity-confusion-711785">North Indians are mistaken for Bengalis in THIS country. The simple reasoning dates back to British rule</a>

In February 2020, in the Lok Sabha, he raised the issue of several areas in Arunachal Pradesh being left out from the political map of India. This included "Hadigra Dakahru Pass, Galai Tagaru Pass... in Chaglagam area."

<h3>Nabam Tuki</h3>

Nabam Tuki is associated with the Congress party and represents Arunachal West constituency. He has also served as the former Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh (2011- 2016). In June 2021, he was investigated by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for allegedly awarding contracts to his relative without following proper channels during his tenure as the Minister of Public Works Department and Urban Development in Arunachal Pradesh.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

India is gearing up for one of its biggest elections in the upcoming month with 28 states and eight Union Territories going to polls. The seven-phase Lok Sabha elections are set to begin on April 19, with many states going for the simultaneous Assembly and Lok Sabha Polls.

India is gearing up for one of its biggest elections in the upcoming month with 28 states and eight Union Territories going to polls. The seven-phase Lok Sabha elections are set to begin on April 19, with many states going for the simultaneous Assembly and Lok Sabha Polls. Arunachal Pradesh will also go in simultaneous elections on April 19, officials announced on March 31. A total of 133 candidates will contest polls for the 50 Assembly constituencies in the state. The ruling-state party BJP has already won 10 seats of the 60-member assembly uncontested. Among those who won are Chief Minister Pema Khandu, and the first two-time candidates - Ratu Techi and Hage Appa from Sagalee and Ziro-Hapoli seats consecutively. Also Read | ISRO scientists create new lightweight nozzle for rocket engines, calling it 'breakthrough' Arunachal Pradesh has only two constituencies - Arunachal West and Arunachal East. In the 2014 elections, Kiren Rijiju of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) emerged victorious in the Arunachal West Lok Sabha constituency, defeating Nabam Tuki of the Indian National Congress (INC). Tapir Gao from the BJP clinched victory in the Arunachal East Lok Sabha constituency triumphing over Lowangcha Wanglat of the INC by a significant margin of 69,948 votes. Here are the key candidates contesting elections in Arunachal Pradesh: Arunachal Pradesh Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Key candidates Kiren Rijiju Kiren Rijiju is the current cabinet minister of Earth and Sciences in the NDA government since 2023. He has been a Member of Parliament (MP) since 2014, representing Arunachal West. Earlier, he served as the Minister of State for Home Affairs from 2014 to 2019. He also served as the Law Minister from 2021 to 2023. Also Read | You are not so innocent, Supreme Court tells Patanjali in misleading ads case His tenure as Law Minister was marked by controversies. In 2022, Kiren called the collegium system of appointment of judges in the Indian judicial system “opaque”, implying that appointments are done on personal networks rather than merit. Tapir Gao Tapir Gao leads the BJP unit in Arunachal East in the state. He was a member of the 14th Lok Sabha representing the Arunachal East constituency for BJP. He lost that seat in 2009 and 2014 but was elected to Lok Sabha for the second time in 2019. Gao was also the General Secretary of the BJP in 2011 and is currently a national executive member of the BJP. Also Read | North Indians are mistaken for Bengalis in THIS country. The simple reasoning dates back to British rule In February 2020, in the Lok Sabha, he raised the issue of several areas in Arunachal Pradesh being left out from the political map of India. This included "Hadigra Dakahru Pass, Galai Tagaru Pass... in Chaglagam area." Nabam Tuki Nabam Tuki is associated with the Congress party and represents Arunachal West constituency. He has also served as the former Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh (2011- 2016). In June 2021, he was investigated by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for allegedly awarding contracts to his relative without following proper channels during his tenure as the Minister of Public Works Department and Urban Development in Arunachal Pradesh. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Arunachal Pradesh phase 1 voting underway. Here are the key candidates

Lok Sabha Election 2024: 43% polling recorded in J&K & 33% in Rajasthan till 1 PM

An Assistant Commandant of CRPF on election duty got injured in an IED blast triggered by Naxalites near Chihka village of Bhairamgarh in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district on Friday. Watch to know more.

Chhattisgarh: Blast in Naxal-hit Bastar region amid phase 1 of voting

ILO Report recently revealed that highly educated youth in India faced higher unemployment rates compared to those without formal education.

India's skills gap challenge: India's economy and the youth 'currency'

Maharashtra Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Phase 1 voting: The general elections in the Indian state of Maharashtra, which has the second-highest number of Lok Sabha (lower house of the Indian parliament) seats, is underway on&nbsp;Friday (Apr 19) with the first phase of voting.&nbsp;

In Maharashtra, the elections will be held in five phases: April 19, April 26, May 7, May 13, and May 20 and the results, like the rest of the country, will be announced on June 4.&nbsp;

<h2>Maharashtra Lok Sabha Election 2024 Phase 1: Constituencies</h2>

Ramtek (SC) 
Nagpur 
Bhandara-Gondiya 
Gadchiroli-Chimur (ST) 
Chandrapur

<h2>Maharashtra Lok Sabha Election 2024 Phase 1: Key candidates</h2>

Nitin Gadkari v/s Vikas Thakre

Nagpur is one of the most prominent parliamentary constituencies, the seat for which is currently held by the Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways of India and senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader, Nitin Gadkari.&nbsp;

The battle in Nagpur is going to be one of the most watched races not only in the state but in the country.&nbsp;Gadkari&nbsp;has a legion of supporters and is said to be a Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) loyalist.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-lok-sabha-elections-2024-schedule-phase-seats-and-all-you-need-to-know-705128">Click here to know all about&nbsp;Maharashtra Lok Sabha Elections 2024</a>

Once a champion of Congress, in 2014, Gadkari defeated seven-time Member of Parliament (MP) Vilas Muttemwar by a margin of 28 million votes. He also managed to retain his seat after defeating current Maharashtra Congress chief Nana Patole by 21.6 million votes, in 2019.&nbsp;

In 2024, Gadkari is eyeing a third consecutive term and has placed development at the centre of his campaign. The Union Minister will be up against Congress candidate Vikas Thakre who could potentially challenge Gadkari’s dominance in the city.&nbsp;

The Congress candidate has brought up issues like unemployment, inflation, lack of basic amenities, and local issues on the campaign trail. He has also taken shots at Gadkari saying that only building bridges and metros “do not mean development”.&nbsp;

Thakre has also remained confident that he will be able to sway the voters who have been disenchanted with the BJP’s agenda. “I can guarantee you that my victory will be with a margin of 1 lakh (100,000) votes,” said the Congress candidate.&nbsp;

Chandrapur&nbsp;

The race in Chandrapur is the one to watch, with it historically being the battleground for the two major parties in the country – BJP and Congress.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/lok-sabha-election-2024">Click Here to get the latest updates of the 2024 Lok Sabha election</a>

In 2019, Congress candidate Suresh ‘Balu’ Dhanorkar managed to defeat incumbent three-time MP Hansraj Gangaram Ahir. However, the seat has been vacant since Dhanrokar’s death in May 2023.

Notably, the BJP had maintained control of the constituency since 2004 before its defeat 15 years later. This year, BJP has fielded Sudhir Mungantiwar, a six-time MLA and state minister against Congress candidate Pratibha Dhanorkar.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
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Maharashtra Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Phase 1 voting: The general elections in the Indian state of Maharashtra, which has the second-highest number of Lok Sabha (lower house of the Indian parliament) seats, is underway on Friday (Apr 19) with the first phase of voting.

Maharashtra Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Phase 1 voting: The general elections in the Indian state of Maharashtra, which has the second-highest number of Lok Sabha (lower house of the Indian parliament) seats, is underway on Friday (Apr 19) with the first phase of voting. In Maharashtra, the elections will be held in five phases: April 19, April 26, May 7, May 13, and May 20 and the results, like the rest of the country, will be announced on June 4. Maharashtra Lok Sabha Election 2024 Phase 1: Constituencies Ramtek (SC) Nagpur Bhandara-Gondiya Gadchiroli-Chimur (ST) Chandrapur Maharashtra Lok Sabha Election 2024 Phase 1: Key candidates Nitin Gadkari v/s Vikas Thakre Nagpur is one of the most prominent parliamentary constituencies, the seat for which is currently held by the Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways of India and senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader, Nitin Gadkari. The battle in Nagpur is going to be one of the most watched races not only in the state but in the country. Gadkari has a legion of supporters and is said to be a Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) loyalist. Click here to know all about Maharashtra Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Once a champion of Congress, in 2014, Gadkari defeated seven-time Member of Parliament (MP) Vilas Muttemwar by a margin of 28 million votes. He also managed to retain his seat after defeating current Maharashtra Congress chief Nana Patole by 21.6 million votes, in 2019. In 2024, Gadkari is eyeing a third consecutive term and has placed development at the centre of his campaign. The Union Minister will be up against Congress candidate Vikas Thakre who could potentially challenge Gadkari’s dominance in the city. The Congress candidate has brought up issues like unemployment, inflation, lack of basic amenities, and local issues on the campaign trail. He has also taken shots at Gadkari saying that only building bridges and metros “do not mean development”. Thakre has also remained confident that he will be able to sway the voters who have been disenchanted with the BJP’s agenda. “I can guarantee you that my victory will be with a margin of 1 lakh (100,000) votes,” said the Congress candidate. Chandrapur The race in Chandrapur is the one to watch, with it historically being the battleground for the two major parties in the country – BJP and Congress. Click Here to get the latest updates of the 2024 Lok Sabha election In 2019, Congress candidate Suresh ‘Balu’ Dhanorkar managed to defeat incumbent three-time MP Hansraj Gangaram Ahir. However, the seat has been vacant since Dhanrokar’s death in May 2023. Notably, the BJP had maintained control of the constituency since 2004 before its defeat 15 years later. This year, BJP has fielded Sudhir Mungantiwar, a six-time MLA and state minister against Congress candidate Pratibha Dhanorkar. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Phase 1 voting: List of key candidates in Maharashtra

As the 17th Lok Sabha term in India is set to expire on June 16, 2024, the Election Commission of India (ECI) announced the schedule of Lok Sabha elections on March 16.

The polls will be conducted in seven phases, from April 19 to June 1. The results will be declared on June 4.

On Friday, a total of 102 constituencies spanning 21 states are participating in the first phase of voting.

With over 968.6 million people eligible to cast their votes this Lok Sabha elections, many have a common query about how to vote if one is residing away from their registered voting constituency.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lakshadweep-lok-sabha-elections-2024-key-candidates-and-all-you-need-to-know-712467">Also read:&nbsp;Lakshadweep Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Key candidates and all you need to know</a>

Here's a guide on how to cast your vote if you are living in a different city:

1.) Check if you are a registered voter

The first step is to check your voter registration status which can either be done online via the Election Commission of India's official website or by talking to your local Electoral Registration Officer.

2.) Voter ID transfer

In case you have moved to a different location but plan to retain your right to vote in your original constituency, you will have to apply for a voter ID transfer. For this, you'll have to submit a form requesting your voter registration transfer from one constituency to another.

This can be done online or from the nearest Electoral Registration Office.

3.) Submit documents

While submitting the transfer form, you'll be required to share certain documents like the proof of residence of where you are currently residing.

4.) Verification

After you have submitted the required documents, the Electoral Registration Officer will begin with the verification process which may involve a visit to your current location.

5.) Confirmation

After the process of successful verification, the voter ID will be transferred to your current constituency and you will receive a confirmation via the mode of communication that you chose while filling out the form.

6.) Carry your voter ID

On election day, do not forget to carry your voter ID card to cast your vote.

(With inputs from agencies)

As the 17th Lok Sabha term in India is set to expire on June 16, 2024, the Election Commission of India (ECI) announced the schedule of Lok Sabha elections on March 16.

As the 17th Lok Sabha term in India is set to expire on June 16, 2024, the Election Commission of India (ECI) announced the schedule of Lok Sabha elections on March 16. The polls will be conducted in seven phases, from April 19 to June 1. The results will be declared on June 4. On Friday, a total of 102 constituencies spanning 21 states are participating in the first phase of voting. With over 968.6 million people eligible to cast their votes this Lok Sabha elections, many have a common query about how to vote if one is residing away from their registered voting constituency. Also read: Lakshadweep Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Key candidates and all you need to know Here's a guide on how to cast your vote if you are living in a different city: 1.) Check if you are a registered voter The first step is to check your voter registration status which can either be done online via the Election Commission of India's official website or by talking to your local Electoral Registration Officer. 2.) Voter ID transfer In case you have moved to a different location but plan to retain your right to vote in your original constituency, you will have to apply for a voter ID transfer. For this, you'll have to submit a form requesting your voter registration transfer from one constituency to another. This can be done online or from the nearest Electoral Registration Office. 3.) Submit documents While submitting the transfer form, you'll be required to share certain documents like the proof of residence of where you are currently residing. 4.) Verification After you have submitted the required documents, the Electoral Registration Officer will begin with the verification process which may involve a visit to your current location. 5.) Confirmation After the process of successful verification, the voter ID will be transferred to your current constituency and you will receive a confirmation via the mode of communication that you chose while filling out the form. 6.) Carry your voter ID On election day, do not forget to carry your voter ID card to cast your vote. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha elections 2024: How to cast vote if you live in different city?

India National Elections 2024: Phase-1 voting underway in 102 constituencies across India

Voting for phase 1 of the Lok Sabha elections is underway in Manipur for its two Lok Sabha constituencies, Inner Manipur and Outer Manipur. On Friday (April 19), miscreants opened fire near a voting booth in the state.

Voting for phase 1 of the Lok Sabha elections is underway in Manipur for its two Lok Sabha constituencies, Inner Manipur and Outer Manipur. On Friday (April 19), miscreants opened fire near a voting booth in the state. Where did the firing happen? The footage of the shooting is circulating on social media. The firing sparked panic among voters in the Inner Manipur constituency at Thamanpokpi under the Moirang Assembly segment. Three persons were hurt, according to The Hindu. Ethnic violence in Manipur Over the last year, there has been ethnic violence in Manipur between the Kuki-Zo tribal population and the majority Meiteis who live in the Imphal Valley. These events have resulted in over 200 deaths and displacement of tens of thousands of people. Also read: Lok Sabha Polls 2024: Three generations of women exercise their right to vote As a result, strict security measures have been put in place for the state's first of the two-phased elections, with 15 of Outer Manipur's 28 Assembly seats voting on April 26. The Election Commission has set up temporary polling booths to accommodate displaced voters, authorities said. Voter turnout in Manipur Until 9:00 am on Friday, approximately 12.6% of the nearly 15.44 lakh voters in Manipur impacted by ethnic violence exercised their right to vote for the two Lok Sabha seats. The Inner Manipur constituency had 13. 82% turnout, while Outer Manipur had 11. 57% turnout in the first two hours of voting.

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Shots fired near polling booth in Manipur, three injured

India Elections 2024: World's biggest dance of democracy begin, fate of 162 candidates to be decided

Voting for the 92 assembly seats in the state elections in Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim began today.

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Voting in Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh today

After two daughters of separatist leaders disassociated themselves from their family ideologies, jailed separatist leader Nayeem Khan’s brother, Muneer, has joined mainstream politics to contest the Lok Sabha polls from North Kashmir’s Baramulla district after joining the Jammu Kashmir Nationalist People’s Front (JKNFP).&nbsp;

Jammu Kashmir Nationalist People’s Front Party was launched two years ago and is named similar to Nayeem Khan’s separatist party National Front, which is a banned organisation in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

The party will be contesting the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, and Muneer Khan will be its candidate from the Baramulla constituency in the Kashmir Valley.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-bjp-accuses-congress-of-deploying-deepfake-to-influence-voters-711461">Lok Sabha Elections 2024: BJP accuses Congress of deploying 'deepfake' to influence voters</a>

Muneer Khan, while speaking to reporters after joining mainstream politics, said, “Nayeem Khan is my brother, and that can’t be changed, but in a democratic setup, we all have individual mindsets. We all have different ideologies. I believe we should focus on our new generations so that we create a platform where there is no mainstream and separatism but the welfare of the young.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Muneer further said, “I want to start with a small party and show that with a new party, we will be doing new things and making things easier for the youth. If you stay with separatism, you will only have dead bodies. We are going to write a new era for the youth of Kashmir. Around 30-40 thousand people are jailed, and it's not only my brother. We will focus on education and the economy.”

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-election-2024/pm-modi-accuses-opposition-of-spreading-lies-on-electoral-bonds-scheme-everyone-will-regret-it-711561">PM Modi accuses opposition of ‘spreading lies’ on electoral bonds scheme; says ‘everyone will regret it’</a>

Former separatist leader and People’s Conference Chairman Sajad Lone is also fighting from the Baramulla parliamentary constituency. The National Conference has fielded its Vice President and former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah from this Lok Sabha seat, while jailed former legislator Engineer Rashid has also announced plans to contest the polls from the Baramulla constituency.

The entry of Muneer Khan has made the contest for this Lok Sabha seat even more interesting. Nayeem Khan, who was a main constituent of Hurriyat in the Kashmir Valley, was arrested by the NIA in 2018 following his involvement in agitation and secessionist activities. 
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After two daughters of separatist leaders disassociated themselves from their family ideologies, jailed separatist leader Nayeem Khan’s brother, Muneer, has joined mainstream politics to contest the Lok Sabha polls from North Kashmir’s Baramulla district after joining the Jammu Kashmir Nationalist People’s Front (JKNFP).

After two daughters of separatist leaders disassociated themselves from their family ideologies, jailed separatist leader Nayeem Khan’s brother, Muneer, has joined mainstream politics to contest the Lok Sabha polls from North Kashmir’s Baramulla district after joining the Jammu Kashmir Nationalist People’s Front (JKNFP). Jammu Kashmir Nationalist People’s Front Party was launched two years ago and is named similar to Nayeem Khan’s separatist party National Front, which is a banned organisation in Jammu and Kashmir. The party will be contesting the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, and Muneer Khan will be its candidate from the Baramulla constituency in the Kashmir Valley. Also Read | Lok Sabha Elections 2024: BJP accuses Congress of deploying 'deepfake' to influence voters Muneer Khan, while speaking to reporters after joining mainstream politics, said, “Nayeem Khan is my brother, and that can’t be changed, but in a democratic setup, we all have individual mindsets. We all have different ideologies. I believe we should focus on our new generations so that we create a platform where there is no mainstream and separatism but the welfare of the young.” Muneer further said, “I want to start with a small party and show that with a new party, we will be doing new things and making things easier for the youth. If you stay with separatism, you will only have dead bodies. We are going to write a new era for the youth of Kashmir. Around 30-40 thousand people are jailed, and it's not only my brother. We will focus on education and the economy.” Also Read | PM Modi accuses opposition of ‘spreading lies’ on electoral bonds scheme; says ‘everyone will regret it’ Former separatist leader and People’s Conference Chairman Sajad Lone is also fighting from the Baramulla parliamentary constituency. The National Conference has fielded its Vice President and former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah from this Lok Sabha seat, while jailed former legislator Engineer Rashid has also announced plans to contest the polls from the Baramulla constituency. The entry of Muneer Khan has made the contest for this Lok Sabha seat even more interesting. Nayeem Khan, who was a main constituent of Hurriyat in the Kashmir Valley, was arrested by the NIA in 2018 following his involvement in agitation and secessionist activities.

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