In the second phase of Lok Sabha elections, held amidst scorching heat across several states, Tripura and Manipur emerged as the frontrunners with voter turnouts of 78.53% and 77.18% respectively, while Uttar Pradesh marked the lowest at 53.71%.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed gratitude towards voters for their participation, anticipating continued support for NDA’s governance. The Election Commission confirmed largely peaceful polling, expecting the turnout percentage to rise as reports from all stations are collated.

Polling occurred across 88 seats in 13 states/UTs, with incidents of EVM glitches and clashes reported in Kerala and West Bengal. The Supreme Court rejected pleas for ballot paper voting but directed the Election Commission on EVM-related issues.

PM Modi hailed the court’s decision, lauding it as a blow to those attempting to discredit EVMs. He emphasized the significance of a robust democracy and the sanctity of each vote.

In Bengaluru, BJP’s Tejasvi Surya faced controversy for allegedly soliciting votes based on religion. Clashes erupted in West Bengal’s Balurghat between BJP and TMC workers, adding to election tensions.

High temperatures affected voter turnout, notably in states like Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra. Special arrangements were made, including shaded areas, water facilities, and medical aid, to mitigate the impact of the heat on voters.

With this phase, polling concluded in Kerala, Rajasthan, and Tripura, with the third phase scheduled for May 7. Counting is set for June 4, as political parties gear up for a competitive electoral battle.

In Tripura, despite overall high turnout, over 600 voters boycotted polling due to neglected infrastructure demands. Similarly, Manipur witnessed security concerns with reports of intimidation and incidents of EVM damage.

Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh saw enthusiastic participation despite Naxalite presence in some constituencies. Candidates raised concerns over alleged electoral malpractices and clashes between supporters.

West Bengal reported clashes and EVM malfunctions, prompting nearly 300 complaints. The state witnessed political tensions with confrontations between BJP and TMC supporters at various polling stations.

In Jammu and Kashmir, voter enthusiasm marked the first major election post-Article 370 abrogation, reflecting citizens’ engagement in the democratic process.

Assam reported instances of polling boycott over development grievances, showcasing citizens’ demand for accountability from elected representatives.

Kerala’s polling process, though marred by sporadic incidents, saw prominent leaders and citizens exercising their franchise, emphasizing the importance of voter participation.

In Karnataka, notable figures like Narayana Murthy and Nirmala Sitharaman cast their votes amidst controversies over alleged religious appeals by candidates.

Rajasthan and Bihar witnessed significant voter turnouts despite local issues and incidents of electoral misconduct, underscoring citizens’ commitment to the democratic process.

Maharashtra recorded peaceful polling despite isolated incidents, reaffirming the electorate’s resolve to participate in shaping the country’s future.

Uttar Pradesh saw varied voter participation, with instances of boycotts and disruptions over infrastructure grievances, highlighting the electorate’s demands for better governance.

As India progresses through the electoral process, the focus remains on ensuring fair and transparent elections, reflecting the nation’s commitment to democracy.

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