Watch Headlines of the hour: - US house passes $95 billion aid bill - Kyiv praises, Moscow condemns aid move - Tel Aviv: Protests grow against Netanyahu - Israel to summon Pro-Palestine envoys

Maldives Elections 2024: Voting underway | US House passes $95 billion aid bill

The Maldives is set to hold Parliamentary elections on April 21st and the polls have shaped up to be a crucial referendum on President Mohammad Muizzu tenure. Muizzu assumed charge in November last year and he and his policies are both facing a litmus test. Watch in for more details!

Maldives Elections 2024: Why Parliamentary majority is crucial for Muizzu?

On Pollnomics, we take you to the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. With 39 seats in the parliament, it has shaped coalition politics in the past. Its unique socio-political landscape has also shaped its robust economy. This report tells you more about this Dravidian citadel.

Tamil Nadu's unique socio-political landscape shapes its robust economy

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

Venezuela is going to polls this July the incumbent government of Nicholas Maduro has come under the scanner for silencing his opposition. In the latest to take notice is the United States the Joe Biden Administration has imposed sanctions on its oil industry.

Venezuela: US to sanction Venezuela's oil industry as Washington wary about free and fair polls

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

Now elections have successfully concluded in the Solomon Islands thousands of Islanders cast their vote with issues of health education and looming over the Pacific Nation. Watch in for more details!

Solomon Islands Elections 2024: Elections closely watched by US, China

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

Lok Sabha Election 2024: Phase 1 voting underway in India, fate of 1625 candidates to be decided

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.

Lok Sabha Election 2024: Blast in Chhattisgarh's Bastar region amid phase 1 of voting

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

Lok Sabha Election 2024: Phase 1 voting underway in India

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

<p>As the electoral clock ticks down to the final moments before voters cast their ballots on April 19, a "silence period" or pre-election silence, is observed for the 48-hour window giving a respite from the flurry of campaign activities and ensuring voters can reflect on their choices without influence. Enshrined within the Representation of the People Act, 1951, Sections 126, 126A, and 135C mandate a cessation of all election-related activities during the silence period. The Election Commission of India (ECI) issues notifications to enforce these provisions and safeguard the integrity of the electoral process.</p>

<p>The Election Commission by the Media Certification &amp; Monitoring Committee, diligently monitors compliance with electoral regulations. Citizens can report violations through the cVIGIL mobile application and can contribute to the maintenance of electoral integrity.</p>

<p><em><strong>Here's a breakdown of what takes place during this time:</strong></em></p>

<p><em><strong>Prohibited activities</strong></em></p>

<p><strong>1. Liquor sales -</strong> The sale or distribution of alcohol within polling areas is strictly forbidden. If someone still engages in this activity there are penalties of imprisonment of up to six months and/or a fine of up to Rs 2,000.</p>

<p><strong>2. Public meetings - </strong>Gathering for public meetings, processions, or entertainment events in order to sway&nbsp;voters is prohibited. Violators face potential imprisonment of&nbsp;up to two years and/or a fine.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/battle-of-the-bastions-will-bjp-wrest-away-chhindwara-from-congress-712393">Battle of the Bastions: Will BJP wrest away Chhindwara from Congress?</a></p>

<p><strong>3. Media engagement - </strong>Candidates and political entities are barred from addressing the media through press conferences or interviews. It ensures a blackout on this kind of election-related discourse and "any violation of this may lead to imprisonment of up to two years and/or a fine."</p>

<p><strong>4. Advertisements - </strong>Advertisements must be clearly distinguished from news content, with stringent regulations governing their dissemination across platforms. Social media giants like Google are required to verify political ads to prevent undue influence.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-key-candidates-in-rajasthans-first-phase-of-voting-712365">Lok Sabha elections 2024: Key candidates in Rajasthan's first phase of voting</a></p>

<p><strong>5. Press Responsibilities - </strong>Media outlets are tasked with providing objective coverage and refraining from promoting animosity or biased narratives. Scrutiny by the Media Certification &amp; Monitoring Committee is done to thwart the dissemination of "paid news".</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/lok-sabha-elections-2024-campaigning-ends-for-lok-sabha-polls-phase-1-712395">Lok Sabha elections 2024: Campaigning ends for Lok Sabha polls phase 1</a></strong></p>

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<p><strong>6. Online Platforms - </strong>Social media intermediaries must adhere to a "Voluntary Code of Ethics" and curb unfair practices and promote electoral awareness.</p>

<p><strong>7. Loudspeakers - </strong>The use of loudspeakers is suspended during the silence period. "After the 48 hours are over, proper permissions from the District Administration have to be taken to use them again," as per the ECI.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>8. Poll Surveys -</strong> Opinion polls and exit polls are prohibited from publication. It ensures impartiality and avoids undue influence on voter sentiment.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


As the electoral clock ticks down to the final moments before voters cast their ballots on April 19, a "silence period" or pre-election silence, is observed for the 48-hour window giving a respite from the flurry of campaign activities and ensuring voters can reflect on their choices without influence.

As the electoral clock ticks down to the final moments before voters cast their ballots on April 19, a "silence period" or pre-election silence, is observed for the 48-hour window giving a respite from the flurry of campaign activities and ensuring voters can reflect on their choices without influence. Enshrined within the Representation of the People Act, 1951, Sections 126, 126A, and 135C mandate a cessation of all election-related activities during the silence period. The Election Commission of India (ECI) issues notifications to enforce these provisions and safeguard the integrity of the electoral process. The Election Commission by the Media Certification & Monitoring Committee, diligently monitors compliance with electoral regulations. Citizens can report violations through the cVIGIL mobile application and can contribute to the maintenance of electoral integrity. Here's a breakdown of what takes place during this time: Prohibited activities 1. Liquor sales - The sale or distribution of alcohol within polling areas is strictly forbidden. If someone still engages in this activity there are penalties of imprisonment of up to six months and/or a fine of up to Rs 2,000. 2. Public meetings - Gathering for public meetings, processions, or entertainment events in order to sway voters is prohibited. Violators face potential imprisonment of up to two years and/or a fine. Also Read | Battle of the Bastions: Will BJP wrest away Chhindwara from Congress? 3. Media engagement - Candidates and political entities are barred from addressing the media through press conferences or interviews. It ensures a blackout on this kind of election-related discourse and "any violation of this may lead to imprisonment of up to two years and/or a fine." 4. Advertisements - Advertisements must be clearly distinguished from news content, with stringent regulations governing their dissemination across platforms. Social media giants like Google are required to verify political ads to prevent undue influence. Also Read | Lok Sabha elections 2024: Key candidates in Rajasthan's first phase of voting 5. Press Responsibilities - Media outlets are tasked with providing objective coverage and refraining from promoting animosity or biased narratives. Scrutiny by the Media Certification & Monitoring Committee is done to thwart the dissemination of "paid news". Watch | Lok Sabha elections 2024: Campaigning ends for Lok Sabha polls phase 1 × 6. Online Platforms - Social media intermediaries must adhere to a "Voluntary Code of Ethics" and curb unfair practices and promote electoral awareness. 7. Loudspeakers - The use of loudspeakers is suspended during the silence period. "After the 48 hours are over, proper permissions from the District Administration have to be taken to use them again," as per the ECI. 8. Poll Surveys - Opinion polls and exit polls are prohibited from publication. It ensures impartiality and avoids undue influence on voter sentiment. (With inputs from agencies)

Pre-election silence period in India: What happens 48 hours before polls?

India's Lok Sabha elections are here. Fervent voters are going to cast their vote. However, some may want to cast their vote but don't have voter ID themselves. Voter identification is needed at polling places according to the ECI. You must provide your ECI-issued voter ID card to cast a ballot. However, you can cast a ballot in an election without a voter ID card as well.

Lok Sabha elections 2024: These documents can be used as an alternative to voter ID card

In today's digital world, India is rapidly emerging as a frontrunner. On pollnomics today, we delve into the key factors driving this growth. We explore India's rise in digital services outsourcing, the transformative power of the digital India programme, and the exciting potential of emerging technologies in shaping the nation's digital future.

Ai, blockchain, & internet shaping India's digital landscape

Solomon Islands Elections 2024: First election after cutting ties with Taiwan, backing China

<p>Elon Musk's social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, has taken action to block several posts in India containing "political speech shared from elected politicians, political parties, and candidates for office."</p>

<p>While taking the action, X in a statement late Tuesday (Apr 16) said, "In compliance with the orders, we have withheld these posts for the remainder of the election period; however, we disagree with these actions and maintain that freedom of expression should extend to these posts and political speech in general."</p>

<p>"We have notified the affected users and in the interest of transparency, we are publishing the takedown orders here. We call on the Election Commission to publish all of its takedown orders going forward."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What did ECI say?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The election body of India reportedly said that the posts in question were in breach of Clause (2) of Part I of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), guidelines issued by the ECI to ensure free and fair elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-leader-claims-jawaharlal-nehru-gifted-coco-islands-to-myanmar-which-is-now-under-chinas-direct-control-712282">BJP leader claims Jawaharlal Nehru gifted Coco Islands to Myanmar, which is now under China's direct control</a></p>

<p>According to the Clause (2),&nbsp;“Criticism of other political parties, when made, shall be confined to their policies and programme, past record and work. Parties and Candidates shall refrain from criticism of all aspects of private life, not connected with the public activities of the leaders or workers of other parties. Criticism of other parties or their workers based on unverified allegations or distortion shall be avoided.”</p>

<p>The election body also mentioned that the posts violated paragraph 9 (iii) of the Commissioner’s advisory to all national and state-recognised political parties on March 1, 2024.&nbsp;“No aspect of the private life, not connected with the public activities, of the leaders or workers of other parties is to be criticised. Low level personal attacks to insult the rivals shall not be made," it read.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-2024-chhattisgarh-to-vote-in-phase-1-here-are-the-key-candidates-712250">Lok Sabha polls 2024: Chhattisgarh to vote in Phase 1. Here are the key candidates</a></p>

<p>It's notable that such decisions are ultimately within the prerogative of respective countries. Moreover, the posts were both by the ruling and the opposition parties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Karnataka High Court last year imposed a $61,000 fine on X for failing to remove tweets and accounts.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-gujarati-couple-inspired-by-their-children-donates-their-entire-wealth-become-monks-712284">India: Gujarati couple inspired by their children donates their entire wealth; Become monks</a></strong></p>

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<p>The court was convinced that many posts were "outrageous... treacherous and anti-national”.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Elon Musk's social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, has taken action to block several posts in India containing "political speech shared from elected politicians, political parties, and candidates for office.

Elon Musk's social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, has taken action to block several posts in India containing "political speech shared from elected politicians, political parties, and candidates for office." While taking the action, X in a statement late Tuesday (Apr 16) said, "In compliance with the orders, we have withheld these posts for the remainder of the election period; however, we disagree with these actions and maintain that freedom of expression should extend to these posts and political speech in general." "We have notified the affected users and in the interest of transparency, we are publishing the takedown orders here. We call on the Election Commission to publish all of its takedown orders going forward." What did ECI say? The election body of India reportedly said that the posts in question were in breach of Clause (2) of Part I of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), guidelines issued by the ECI to ensure free and fair elections. Also Read | BJP leader claims Jawaharlal Nehru gifted Coco Islands to Myanmar, which is now under China's direct control According to the Clause (2), “Criticism of other political parties, when made, shall be confined to their policies and programme, past record and work. Parties and Candidates shall refrain from criticism of all aspects of private life, not connected with the public activities of the leaders or workers of other parties. Criticism of other parties or their workers based on unverified allegations or distortion shall be avoided.” The election body also mentioned that the posts violated paragraph 9 (iii) of the Commissioner’s advisory to all national and state-recognised political parties on March 1, 2024. “No aspect of the private life, not connected with the public activities, of the leaders or workers of other parties is to be criticised. Low level personal attacks to insult the rivals shall not be made," it read. Also Read | Lok Sabha polls 2024: Chhattisgarh to vote in Phase 1. Here are the key candidates It's notable that such decisions are ultimately within the prerogative of respective countries. Moreover, the posts were both by the ruling and the opposition parties. Karnataka High Court last year imposed a $61,000 fine on X for failing to remove tweets and accounts. Watch | India: Gujarati couple inspired by their children donates their entire wealth; Become monks × The court was convinced that many posts were "outrageous... treacherous and anti-national”. (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk’s X blocks certain posts in India till election concludes

The European Parliament is one of the largest electorates in the world second only to India. 400 million people will vote across 27 countries June's elections are both big and important they're the first ever after Brexit.

European Parliament to hold elections in June, What makes them crucial?

Let's look at investment trends and expectations in Asian markets. A Bloomberg markets live pulse survey shows that investors should look towards India rather than China or Japan. This is mainly driven by India's potential to convert its growing economy into corporate profits.

Why investors prefer Indian stocks?

India's Lok Sabha elections will take place over a period of 44 days. Several factors from the size of electorate to deployment of security forces determine the timeline of polls. Here's an explainer on why the upcoming general elections will be the second longest in India's history.

Lok Sabha Elections: Why 2024 elections will be second longest in India's history?

The Indian elections are just four days away and preparations are in full swing. In an interview with ANI, PM Modi spoke on his vision for a developed India. Watch to know more.

Lok Sabha Elections: Indian PM says 'one nation, one election' is BJP's commitment to India

US sanctions on Venezuela make headlines, as Washington threatens embargo over questions of free and fair elections in the country. But Nicolas Maduro is not one to back down, as the president eyes a third term in office.

Venezuela elections under scanner

Preparations are underway in the Solomon Islands as the country goes to polls on Wednesday. But on the eve of the Elections locals especially business owners hope for a riot-free and peaceful process.

Election-eve at Solomon Islands

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<p>Sikkim will vote in phase 1 of the Lok Sabha election on April 19, 2024, for its single Lok Sabha constituency and 32 assembly seats. 91 constituencies in 18 states and 2 Union Territories will vote in the first phase.</p>

<h2><strong>List of candidates for 2024 polls in Sikkim:</strong></h2>

<p>In Sikkim, the Indian National Congress has fielded Gopal Chettri, and the Bharatiya Janata Party has fielded Dinesh Chandra Nepal. The Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) has fielded Indra Hang Subba. Meanwhile, the Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) has put Prem Das Rai in the election race.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://wionews.com/india-election-2024/lok-sabha-polls-2024-mizoram-to-vote-in-phase-1-here-are-the-key-candidates-711897" target="_blank"><strong>Lok Sabha polls 2024: Mizoram to vote in Phase 1. Here are the key candidates</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Key contenders:</strong></h2>

<p>Indra Hang Subba of Sikkim Krantikari Morcha, the ruling party of the Himalayan state is one of the top contenders for Lok Sabha constituency. He won the Lok Sabha election in the state in 2019. "PD Rai claims to represent Sikkim but his divisive language only serves to create communal tensions. We must prioritise the interests of Sikkim over individual communities. Sikkim is safe today because the people chose SKM in 2019," Subba said during a rally.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://wionews.com/india-election-2024/pm-modi-hits-out-at-opposition-over-level-playing-field-in-lok-sabha-elections-heaps-praise-on-ed-711622" target="_blank"><strong>PM Modi hits out at Opposition over ‘level playing field’ in Lok Sabha elections, heaps praise on ED</strong></a></p>

<p>Another key candidate is Prem Das Rai of Sikkim Democratic Front who won the Lok Sabha seat in 2014 election.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Lok Sabha elections 2024 schedule:</strong></h2>

<p>Voting for Lok Sabha elections will be conducted in 7 phases with the first phase on April 19, the second phase on April 26, the third phase on May 7, the fourth on May 13, the fifth on May 20, the sixth on May 25 and the seventh on June 1. The result will be declared on June 4.</p>


Sikkim will vote in phase 1 of the Lok Sabha election on April 19, 2024, for its single Lok Sabha constituency and 32 assembly seats. 91 constituencies in 18 states and 2 Union Territories will vote in the first phase.

Sikkim will vote in phase 1 of the Lok Sabha election on April 19, 2024, for its single Lok Sabha constituency and 32 assembly seats. 91 constituencies in 18 states and 2 Union Territories will vote in the first phase. List of candidates for 2024 polls in Sikkim: In Sikkim, the Indian National Congress has fielded Gopal Chettri, and the Bharatiya Janata Party has fielded Dinesh Chandra Nepal. The Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) has fielded Indra Hang Subba. Meanwhile, the Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) has put Prem Das Rai in the election race. Also read: Lok Sabha polls 2024: Mizoram to vote in Phase 1. Here are the key candidates Key contenders: Indra Hang Subba of Sikkim Krantikari Morcha, the ruling party of the Himalayan state is one of the top contenders for Lok Sabha constituency. He won the Lok Sabha election in the state in 2019. "PD Rai claims to represent Sikkim but his divisive language only serves to create communal tensions. We must prioritise the interests of Sikkim over individual communities. Sikkim is safe today because the people chose SKM in 2019," Subba said during a rally. Also read: PM Modi hits out at Opposition over ‘level playing field’ in Lok Sabha elections, heaps praise on ED Another key candidate is Prem Das Rai of Sikkim Democratic Front who won the Lok Sabha seat in 2014 election. Lok Sabha elections 2024 schedule: Voting for Lok Sabha elections will be conducted in 7 phases with the first phase on April 19, the second phase on April 26, the third phase on May 7, the fourth on May 13, the fifth on May 20, the sixth on May 25 and the seventh on June 1. The result will be declared on June 4.

Lok Sabha polls 2024: Sikkim to vote in Phase 1. Here are the key candidates

Senior citizens and disabled individuals in India's Kashmir cast their votes from home using postal ballots on Monday (April 15), for the upcoming general elections. Teams of polling officers carried voting material to the homes of those with physical limitations. This process initiated due to age or disabilities and to mark their participation in the elections.

India Elections 2024: Senior citizens & disabled individuals cast votes from home in Kashmir

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<p>Mizoram has a single seat in the Lok Sabha. Mizoram is scheduled to vote in the first phase of the elections on April 19, 2024. In the first phase, votes will be cast in 91 constituencies across 18 states and 2 Union Territories.</p>

<h2><strong>List of candidates for 2024 Lok Sabha polls in Mizoram:</strong></h2>

<p>Mizoram, which has 44 assembly seats, will see a tight competition between candidates including:</p>

<p>K. Vanlalvena - Mizo National Front (MNF)</p>

<p>Richard Vanlalhmangaiha - Zoram People's Movement (ZPM)</p>

<p>Lalbiakzama - Indian National Congress (INC)</p>

<p>Vanhlalmuaka - Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)</p>

<p>Rita Malsawmi - Mizoram People's Conference (MPC)</p>

<p>Lalhriatrenga Chhangte - Independent</p>

<h2><strong>Key contenders:</strong></h2>

<p>Richard Vanlalhmangaiha of the Zoram People's Movement (ZPM) is one of the top contenders in the Mizoram Lok Sabha elections. ZPM which was registered as a political party in 2019, won the 2023 Mizoram Assembly elections. It is the first time a candidate from the Zoram People's Movement is running for Lok Sabha polls.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://wionews.com/india-election-2024/pm-modi-hits-out-at-opposition-over-level-playing-field-in-lok-sabha-elections-heaps-praise-on-ed-711622" target="_blank">PM Modi hits out at Opposition over ‘level playing field’ in Lok Sabha elections, heaps praise on ED</a></strong></p>

<p>"I started my election campaign on April 2 and I came back yesterday. Within two weeks I went all around Mizoram. I met villagers, farmers, government servants and all different types of communities. Everyone is after ZPM. We have a very great opportunity to win...There is no coalition. We are fighting the elections from all six corners; MNF, Congress, ZPM, PC, BJP and one independent... Mizoram is lacking industries in the agriculture sector," Vanlalhmangaiha told ANI on Monday (April 15).</p>

<p>Another key candidate includes Mizo National Front's K. Vanlalvena. MNF won the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. K. Vanlalvena is a Rajya Sabha member from Mizoram.</p>

<h2><strong>Lok Sabha elections 2024 schedule:</strong></h2>

<p>Voting for Lok Sabha elections will be conducted in 7 phases with the first phase on April 19, the second phase on April 26, the third phase on May 7, the fourth on May 13, the fifth on May 20, the sixth on May 25 and the seventh on June 1. The counting of votes will take place on June 4 and the result will be declared on the same day.</p>


Mizoram has a single seat in the Lok Sabha. Mizoram is scheduled to vote in the first phase of the elections on April 19, 2024. In the first phase, votes will be cast in 91 constituencies across 18 states and 2 Union Territories.

Mizoram has a single seat in the Lok Sabha. Mizoram is scheduled to vote in the first phase of the elections on April 19, 2024. In the first phase, votes will be cast in 91 constituencies across 18 states and 2 Union Territories. List of candidates for 2024 Lok Sabha polls in Mizoram: Mizoram, which has 44 assembly seats, will see a tight competition between candidates including: K. Vanlalvena - Mizo National Front (MNF) Richard Vanlalhmangaiha - Zoram People's Movement (ZPM) Lalbiakzama - Indian National Congress (INC) Vanhlalmuaka - Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Rita Malsawmi - Mizoram People's Conference (MPC) Lalhriatrenga Chhangte - Independent Key contenders: Richard Vanlalhmangaiha of the Zoram People's Movement (ZPM) is one of the top contenders in the Mizoram Lok Sabha elections. ZPM which was registered as a political party in 2019, won the 2023 Mizoram Assembly elections. It is the first time a candidate from the Zoram People's Movement is running for Lok Sabha polls. Also read: PM Modi hits out at Opposition over ‘level playing field’ in Lok Sabha elections, heaps praise on ED "I started my election campaign on April 2 and I came back yesterday. Within two weeks I went all around Mizoram. I met villagers, farmers, government servants and all different types of communities. Everyone is after ZPM. We have a very great opportunity to win...There is no coalition. We are fighting the elections from all six corners; MNF, Congress, ZPM, PC, BJP and one independent... Mizoram is lacking industries in the agriculture sector," Vanlalhmangaiha told ANI on Monday (April 15). Another key candidate includes Mizo National Front's K. Vanlalvena. MNF won the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. K. Vanlalvena is a Rajya Sabha member from Mizoram. Lok Sabha elections 2024 schedule: Voting for Lok Sabha elections will be conducted in 7 phases with the first phase on April 19, the second phase on April 26, the third phase on May 7, the fourth on May 13, the fifth on May 20, the sixth on May 25 and the seventh on June 1. The counting of votes will take place on June 4 and the result will be declared on the same day.

Lok Sabha polls 2024: Mizoram to vote in Phase 1. Here are the key candidates

Donald Trump is facing trial related to a hush money payment case. Trump is making history by becoming the first former US president to sit in a courtroom for a criminal trial just months ahead of the US presidential elections. Watch in for more details!

Donald Trump calls his Hush Money Trial 'an assault on America'

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has slammed BJP's election Manifesto calling it a villain. Watch to know more.

Tamil Nadu: DMK's Stalin hits out at BJP

<p>The seven-phase Lok Sabha elections are set to begin on April 19 as the world's biggest democracy will exercise its right to vote and decide who will be in power for the next five years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Election Commission of India will hold the polls in seven phases- April 19, April 26, May 13, May 20, May 25, and June 1. The counting of votes will happen on June 4.</p>

<h2><strong>Bihar set to vote in Phase 1 of Lok Sabha polls&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The state of Bihar, which has 40 Lok Sabha seats, is seen as one of the most&nbsp;significant states in Indian politics. With such a high number of seats in Lok Sabha, it is also the fourth-highest state overall.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-lok-sabha-elections-2024-schedule-phase-seats-and-all-you-need-to-know-703540">Bihar Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Schedule, date, phase, seats and all you need to know</a></p>

<p>Since it has 40 Lok Sabha seats, Bihar will vote in all the phases of Lok Sabha elections. The counting of votes will be held on June 4.</p>

<p>In the first phase of elections, Bihar will hold polls in four constituencies - Aurangabad, Gaya, Jamui and Nawada on April 19. This will decide the future of 38 candidates in fray in these four constituencies. Gaya has the highest number of 14 candidates contesting the elections.</p>

<h2><strong>Key constituencies going for polls in first phase in Bihar&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p><strong>Aurangabad&nbsp;</strong><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p>Aurangabad Lok Sabha seat is dominated by the upper caste Rajputs. However, the constituency also has a good number of Other Backward Class (OBC) and Extremely Backward Class (EBC) voters.</p>

<p>Overall, there are 18 lakh voters in Aurangabad out of which 25 per cent belong to the General Category, 20 per cent are Other Backward Classes, more than 23 per cent are EBC, 20 per cent are Scheduled Castes (SC) and 10 per cent are Muslims.</p>

<p>More than 70 per cent of voters in the General Category are Rajputs.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;India elections 2024: Battle for Bihar's 40 Lok Sabha seats; NDA vs Grand Alliance in Bihar</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-elections-2024-battle-for-bihars-40-lok-sabha-seats-nda-vs-grand-alliance-in-bihar-701938/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p><strong>Gaya</strong></p>

<p>The Gaya Lok Sabha constituency is important because of the tourism it attracts because of the famous Buddhist site of Bodh Gaya.</p>

<p>Gaya is also considered sacred to Hindus where they perform ancestral rites. In this constituency, the biggest issue has been persistent water scarcity in the summers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the Gaya Lok Sabha constituency, more than 30 per cent of the voters belong to the Scheduled Castes (SC).</p>

<h3><strong>Jamui</strong></h3>

<p>Jamui has more than 17 lakh voters out of which nearly 2.5 lakh voters are EBC and an equal number of voters are OBC Yadav and Koeri, Kurmi and Dhanuk. The constituency covers three districts of Munger, Jamui and Sheikhpura, and also has six Assembly segments of Tarapur, Sheikpura, Sikandra, Jamui, Jhajha and Chakai where there are around 1.5 lakh Muslim voters.</p>

<h3><strong>Nawada</strong></h3>

<p>Nawada is a Lok Sabha constituency which covers the entire Nawada district as well as parts of Sheikhpura district. It has six assembly seats Barbigha, Rajauli (SC), Hisua, Nawada, Gobindpur, and Warsaliganj.</p>

<p>The Nawada constituency's caste-based demographics is dominated by Bhumihar, Yadav, Kushwaha, Vaishya, and the Dalit, EBC and OBC. Bhumihars form around 22-25 per cent of the vote bank in the Nawada constituency. There are two to five per cent Kushwaha voters also.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The seven-phase Lok Sabha elections are set to begin on April 19 as the world's biggest democracy will exercise its right to vote and decide who will be in power for the next five years.

The seven-phase Lok Sabha elections are set to begin on April 19 as the world's biggest democracy will exercise its right to vote and decide who will be in power for the next five years. The Election Commission of India will hold the polls in seven phases- April 19, April 26, May 13, May 20, May 25, and June 1. The counting of votes will happen on June 4. Bihar set to vote in Phase 1 of Lok Sabha polls The state of Bihar, which has 40 Lok Sabha seats, is seen as one of the most significant states in Indian politics. With such a high number of seats in Lok Sabha, it is also the fourth-highest state overall. Also Read: Bihar Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Schedule, date, phase, seats and all you need to know Since it has 40 Lok Sabha seats, Bihar will vote in all the phases of Lok Sabha elections. The counting of votes will be held on June 4. In the first phase of elections, Bihar will hold polls in four constituencies - Aurangabad, Gaya, Jamui and Nawada on April 19. This will decide the future of 38 candidates in fray in these four constituencies. Gaya has the highest number of 14 candidates contesting the elections. Key constituencies going for polls in first phase in Bihar Aurangabad Aurangabad Lok Sabha seat is dominated by the upper caste Rajputs. However, the constituency also has a good number of Other Backward Class (OBC) and Extremely Backward Class (EBC) voters. Overall, there are 18 lakh voters in Aurangabad out of which 25 per cent belong to the General Category, 20 per cent are Other Backward Classes, more than 23 per cent are EBC, 20 per cent are Scheduled Castes (SC) and 10 per cent are Muslims. More than 70 per cent of voters in the General Category are Rajputs. Watch: India elections 2024: Battle for Bihar's 40 Lok Sabha seats; NDA vs Grand Alliance in Bihar Gaya The Gaya Lok Sabha constituency is important because of the tourism it attracts because of the famous Buddhist site of Bodh Gaya. Gaya is also considered sacred to Hindus where they perform ancestral rites. In this constituency, the biggest issue has been persistent water scarcity in the summers. In the Gaya Lok Sabha constituency, more than 30 per cent of the voters belong to the Scheduled Castes (SC). Jamui Jamui has more than 17 lakh voters out of which nearly 2.5 lakh voters are EBC and an equal number of voters are OBC Yadav and Koeri, Kurmi and Dhanuk. The constituency covers three districts of Munger, Jamui and Sheikhpura, and also has six Assembly segments of Tarapur, Sheikpura, Sikandra, Jamui, Jhajha and Chakai where there are around 1.5 lakh Muslim voters. Nawada Nawada is a Lok Sabha constituency which covers the entire Nawada district as well as parts of Sheikhpura district. It has six assembly seats Barbigha, Rajauli (SC), Hisua, Nawada, Gobindpur, and Warsaliganj. The Nawada constituency's caste-based demographics is dominated by Bhumihar, Yadav, Kushwaha, Vaishya, and the Dalit, EBC and OBC. Bhumihars form around 22-25 per cent of the vote bank in the Nawada constituency. There are two to five per cent Kushwaha voters also. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha polls 2024: Bihar to vote in Phase 1. A look at the key constituencies

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<p>The seven-phase Lok Sabha elections are set to begin on April 19 as the world's biggest democracy will exercise its right to vote and decide who will remain in power for the next five years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The state of Bihar, which has 40 Lok Sabha seats, will vote in all the phases of Lok Sabha elections. The counting of votes will be held on June 4.</p>

<p>In the first phase of elections, Bihar will hold polls in four constituencies - Aurangabad, Gaya, Jamui and Nawada on April 19. This will decide the future of 38 candidates who are in fray in these four constituencies.</p>

<p>In this election, the ruling party BJP has fielded its candidates in the Aurangabad and Nawada constituencies and the Gaya (reserved) seat has gone to the Hindustani Awam Morcha-Secular (HAM-S), an ally of the BJP. The Jamui seat has been kept for Chirag Paswan-led Lok Janshakti Party-Ram Vilas (LJP-RV), which has always enjoyed a stronghold in the region.</p>

<p>The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) clinched victory on all four seats in the 2019 Lok Sabha election. The BJP clinched victory in Aurangabad, the Janata Dal-United (JD-U) won in Gaya, and the then-united Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) clinched victory in both Jamui and Nawada.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-lok-sabha-elections-2024-schedule-phase-seats-and-all-you-need-to-know-703540">Bihar Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Schedule, date, phase, seats and all you need to know</a></p>

<h2><strong>Here are the key candidates&nbsp; &nbsp;</strong></h2>

<h3><strong>Jitan Ram Manjhi&nbsp;</strong></h3>

<p>HAM(S) leader Jitan Ram Manjhi has been pitted by the NDA in the Gaya constituency against the Mahagathbandhan’s Kumar Sarvajeet, who is from the RJD.</p>

<p>79-year-old Manjhi, who is Bihar's former chief minister, will be trying his luck for the fourth time in Gaya Lok Sabha constituency.&nbsp;</p>

<p>49-year-old Kumar Sarvjeet is the sitting MLA of RJD from Bodh Gaya. He has been fielded by the RJD from the Gaya constituency in Lok Sabha elections against Manjhi and has vowed to "defeat him in his fourth attempt."</p>

<p>BSP’s Sushma Kumari is also in the fray in Gaya and has been banking on the EBC voters in the constituency.</p>

<h3><strong>Arun Bharti&nbsp;</strong></h3>

<p>LJP-RV chief Mr. Chirag Paswan has this time fielded his brother-in-law Arun Bharti from the Jamui (reserved) seat against Mahagathbandhan candidate Archana Ravidas</p>

<p>Paswan himself has been the MP from Jamui twice in 2014 and 2019 and the constituency is considered his party's stronghold.</p>

<h3><strong>Vivek Thakur</strong></h3>

<p>BJP’s Vivek Thakur is set to give a tough fight to Mahagathbandhan's OBC candidate Shrawan Kushwaha at Nawada along with independent candidates Vinod Yadav and Bhojpuri singer Gunjan Singh as his opponents.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;India elections 2024: Battle for Bihar's 40 Lok Sabha seats; NDA vs Grand Alliance in Bihar</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-elections-2024-battle-for-bihars-40-lok-sabha-seats-nda-vs-grand-alliance-in-bihar-701938/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Shrawan Kushwaha has been rallying against Vivek Thakur by playing the local versus “<em>jo yahan ka beta hoga, wohi yahan ka neta hoga“&nbsp;</em>(only a local will lead). Thakur, who belongs to Patna district, has called the issue “insignificant”.</p>

<p>Both Thakur and Kushwaha will be for the first time contesting the Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;</p>

<h3><strong>Sushil Kumar Singh</strong></h3>

<p>Bharatiya Janata Party's Sushil Kumar Singh and Rashtriya Janata Dal's Abhay Kushwaha are the prominent candidates contesting elections from the Aurangabad constituency.</p>

<p>BJP's Sushil Kumar Singh had won the General Elections in 2019 with a victory margin of 72,607 votes after clinching&nbsp;4,31,541 votes.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The seven-phase Lok Sabha elections are set to begin on April 19 as the world's biggest democracy will exercise its right to vote and decide who will remain in power for the next five years.

The seven-phase Lok Sabha elections are set to begin on April 19 as the world's biggest democracy will exercise its right to vote and decide who will remain in power for the next five years. The state of Bihar, which has 40 Lok Sabha seats, will vote in all the phases of Lok Sabha elections. The counting of votes will be held on June 4. In the first phase of elections, Bihar will hold polls in four constituencies - Aurangabad, Gaya, Jamui and Nawada on April 19. This will decide the future of 38 candidates who are in fray in these four constituencies. In this election, the ruling party BJP has fielded its candidates in the Aurangabad and Nawada constituencies and the Gaya (reserved) seat has gone to the Hindustani Awam Morcha-Secular (HAM-S), an ally of the BJP. The Jamui seat has been kept for Chirag Paswan-led Lok Janshakti Party-Ram Vilas (LJP-RV), which has always enjoyed a stronghold in the region. The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) clinched victory on all four seats in the 2019 Lok Sabha election. The BJP clinched victory in Aurangabad, the Janata Dal-United (JD-U) won in Gaya, and the then-united Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) clinched victory in both Jamui and Nawada. Also Read: Bihar Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Schedule, date, phase, seats and all you need to know Here are the key candidates Jitan Ram Manjhi HAM(S) leader Jitan Ram Manjhi has been pitted by the NDA in the Gaya constituency against the Mahagathbandhan’s Kumar Sarvajeet, who is from the RJD. 79-year-old Manjhi, who is Bihar's former chief minister, will be trying his luck for the fourth time in Gaya Lok Sabha constituency. 49-year-old Kumar Sarvjeet is the sitting MLA of RJD from Bodh Gaya. He has been fielded by the RJD from the Gaya constituency in Lok Sabha elections against Manjhi and has vowed to "defeat him in his fourth attempt." BSP’s Sushma Kumari is also in the fray in Gaya and has been banking on the EBC voters in the constituency. Arun Bharti LJP-RV chief Mr. Chirag Paswan has this time fielded his brother-in-law Arun Bharti from the Jamui (reserved) seat against Mahagathbandhan candidate Archana Ravidas Paswan himself has been the MP from Jamui twice in 2014 and 2019 and the constituency is considered his party's stronghold. Vivek Thakur BJP’s Vivek Thakur is set to give a tough fight to Mahagathbandhan's OBC candidate Shrawan Kushwaha at Nawada along with independent candidates Vinod Yadav and Bhojpuri singer Gunjan Singh as his opponents. Watch: India elections 2024: Battle for Bihar's 40 Lok Sabha seats; NDA vs Grand Alliance in Bihar Shrawan Kushwaha has been rallying against Vivek Thakur by playing the local versus “jo yahan ka beta hoga, wohi yahan ka neta hoga“ (only a local will lead). Thakur, who belongs to Patna district, has called the issue “insignificant”. Both Thakur and Kushwaha will be for the first time contesting the Lok Sabha elections. Sushil Kumar Singh Bharatiya Janata Party's Sushil Kumar Singh and Rashtriya Janata Dal's Abhay Kushwaha are the prominent candidates contesting elections from the Aurangabad constituency. BJP's Sushil Kumar Singh had won the General Elections in 2019 with a victory margin of 72,607 votes after clinching 4,31,541 votes. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha polls 2024: Bihar to vote in Phase 1. Here are the key candidates

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