ground-report

Despite speculations about the boycott, people in Kashmir voted in record numbers, with a 38% voter turnout in the fourth phase of the LS polls.

During the final phase of Lok Sabha polls in Madhya Pradesh, villages in Shajapur boycotted voting due to lack of development, citing absence of Narmada Project benefits and road connectivity. Villagers demand resolution of grievances before casting votes, highlighting issues of transportation and education access.

On Monday, leaders of the Opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi alleged substantial cash transfers purportedly aimed at purchasing votes in the Lok Sabha elections. Meanwhile, anti-corruption advocate Anna Hazare expressed disapproval, in contrast to the MahaYuti's denial of the allegations, claiming it's a tactic to divert attention from the potential defeat of the opposition.

The Election Commission (EC) and government agencies are collaborating to increase voter turnout, which has been impacted by factors such as extreme heat.

The poll campaign picks up, three out of four Lok Sabha seats in HP– Hamirpur, Mandi and Kangra, to witness a battle of prestige with high-profile candidates in the fray.

The Telugu-speaking Andhra Pradesh and Telangana have always been known for dynastic politics. Political legacies run deep here, and like in the past, the upcoming elections in these states are a veritable showcase of family fiefdoms.

The absence of the Congress from the Indore Lok Sabha race has subdued the campaigning atmosphere, raising speculation on the potential impact of 'NOTA' on May 13. With the Congress urging voters to opt for 'NOTA' to signal discontent with the BJP, they have been organising torch rallies, meetings, and leveraging social media for discussions.

Pullivendula is one of the most keenly watched elections in Andhra Pradesh. Chief Minister YS Jaganmohan Reddy is contesting to retain this seat that his family has held continuously since 1978. 

In Ladakh's lone Lok Sabha constituency, the situation has evolved into a clash between Buddhist-dominated Leh and Muslim-majority Kargil.

Bollywood actress and BJP nominee from Mandi seat in Himachal Pradesh, Kangana Ranaut banks more on ‘Modi card’ and former CM Jai Ram Thakur’s support on the ground, while Congress candidate & PWD minister, Vikramaditya Singh plays his cards cautiously, counting on his connect with people, local issues and his father, late Virbhadra Singh’s base in Mandi.

When asked whether the incident would affect the vote count recorded in the EVMs, the collector said he would send his report to the Election Commission on the issue, and the poll body would decide whether to re-poll the affected booths.

In the Gujarat Lok Sabha elections, voters overcame physical challenges to participate, including using legs to cast votes and voting on stretchers. Non-resident Gujaratis returned to their hometowns to vote, while the Election Commission introduced initiatives like wedding-like decor and selfie points aimed at making voting memorable.