Karnataka sees brisk polling in phase 1 of voting

Young and old participate in festival of democracy

Celebrities, centurions cast votes; decide fates of candidates

In the second phase of the Lok Sabha elections 2024, the electoral fervor continued to grip the nation following the completion of the first phase in Karnataka. With 14 constituencies in the state going to the polls, citizens from all walks of life turned out in significant numbers to exercise their democratic right.

Also Read: Mysuru: Javagal Srinath displayed his inked finger after voting, urged voters to exercise their right to vote

Prominent personalities, including celebrities and sports icons, made their way to the polling booths to cast their votes, underscoring the importance of active participation in the electoral process. Celebrities like Yash, Prakash Raj, Chandan Shetty and Saptami Gowda, alongside renowned sportsmen such as Javagal Srinath, Rahul Dravid, and Anil Kumble, set an example by fulfilling their civic duty. 

#Mysuru: #JavagalSrinath displayed his inked finger after #voting, urged #voters to exercise their right to vote#LokSabhaElections2024

Read more: https://t.co/i2AQYN0kFr

— NewsFirst Prime (@NewsFirstprime) April 26, 2024

The spirit of democracy transcended age barriers as well, with centenarian Muniymma, aged 105, casting her vote in Kolar, alongside 94-year-old retired Air Marshall Iyer. Their unwavering commitment to democracy served as an inspiration to voters across generations.

Political figures of significance, including Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Members of Parliament like Tejasvi Surya, also participated in the electoral process, emphasizing the importance of every vote in shaping the nation’s future.

In a heartwarming gesture, a bride named Ankita exercised her franchise before tying the knot, highlighting the prioritization of civic duty even amidst life’s milestones.

In a phenomenal gesture, a bride Ankita cast her vote in Karnataka, just minutes before she tied the knot. Long queues were witnessed early in the morning even as a few constituencies vote. #LokSabhaElections2024 #LokSabha2024 #LokSabhaElections pic.twitter.com/JZEFCL5sB9

— NewsFirst Prime (@NewsFirstprime) April 26, 2024

Furthermore, the elections saw participation from specially-abled individuals, with one wheelchair-bound voter defying obstacles to cast their vote, symbolizing inclusivity and the democratic spirit.

Across the nation, a total of 89 seats in 13 states went to polls on this day, showcasing the widespread engagement of citizens in the electoral process. In Karnataka alone, the Election Commission reported a voter percentage of 63.90% until 5 pm, indicating a robust turnout and active involvement of the electorate.

However, amidst the electoral proceedings, the Supreme Court dismissed several pleas advocating for 100% verification of Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT), asserting its stance on the autonomy of the electoral process and its inability to directly control elections.

As the nation eagerly awaits the election results, the second phase of the Lok Sabha elections 2024 underscores the vibrancy of India’s democracy and the collective responsibility of its citizens in shaping the nation’s destiny.