By Our Correspondent
NEW DELHI/BHUBANESWAR: Across the vast expanse of India, the summer sun was outshone by the colour and festivities in Polling Stations, as the largest democracy in the world goes to polls today. People were undeterred by rains in certain parts like Uddhampur, J&K and waited in long queues for voting. 102 Parliamentary Constituencies and 92 Assembly Constituencies in the North- Eastern states of Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim are heading to polls simultaneously today.
Polling is progressing smoothly and peacefully across all 21 States/UTs in Phase I. Visuals of voters standing in long queues waiting for their chance to vote were seen across the polling stations as voting began simultaneously across 102 PCs at 7 AM today. The last two years preparations for the smooth conduct of the polls have been thorough and unyielding under the leadership of the Commission led by CEC Shri Rajiv Kumar along with ECs Shri Gyanesh Kumar and Shri Sukhbir Singh Sandhu.
In a kaleidoscope of democracy in action, voters of all ages—from energetic youths to wise elders, couples, tribals, PwDs and beaming newly-weds—join the electoral festivities.
The polling has been marked by its largely peaceful and orderly conduct. The festive spirit was on show with fashionable displays of ethnic and modern attire, as voters were seen turning polling stations into vibrant mosaics of Indian culture.
Heartening stories of grit, resolve and determination to have the coveted indelible ink emblazoned on their finger-tips are emerging. In Kurung Kumey District of Arunachal Pradesh an elderly voter opted to go cast her vote at the polling station despite having the option to vote from home.
Elsewhere, a first-time voter, Ms. Devaki, adorned in traditional attire, in Dindori, Madhya Pradesh, expressed her happiness by proudly striking a pose with her inked finger after casting her vote. Adding to the celebratory atmosphere, newly-married voters also proudly took to social media to post selfies with their ink-marked fingers.
Scenes from polling stations today saw efforts in ensuring inclusive elections bear fruit as PVTG voters came to polling stations across the country beaming with the joy of exercising their franchise. The Great Andamanese Tribe from Strait Island in South Andaman also participated enthusiastically.
The Commission has placed particular emphasis on turning voting into a pleasant and memorable experience. Assured Minimum Facilities like water, shed, toilets, ramps, volunteers, wheelchairs, and electricity are in place to ensure that every voter, including elderly and persons with disabilities, can cast their vote with ease. LWE areas in Chattisgarh are also reporting peaceful voting
