New Delhi: The first phase of voting for the 18th Lok Sabha elections was by and large peaceful on Friday.
Tentative voter turnout at 7 pm stood at 60 per cent, according to Election Commission of India (ECI).
In what was the biggest of seven phases, electorates in 102 constituencies – out of 543 – exercised their democratic right with great enthusiasm and vigour despite the heatwave sweeping across the country.
The century-plus constituencies were spread across 21 states and Union territories.
Some incidents of violence were reported from West Bengal and strife-torn Manipur, but there was nothing too serious or major.
Manipur witnessed a couple of incidents of firing, with a 65-year-old sustaining injuries. There were reports of booth-capturing in some areas also of the north-eastern state.
Interestingly, West Bengal, which is notorious for violence before, during and after any election, recorded an impressive 77.57 per cent voting. It was one of only two states which saw more than 75% voter turnout, with Tripura recording 79.90%.
Tamil Nadu was the only state where voting was completed in all 39 constituencies on the very first day.
“I am curious to know what the result is… But let’s hope it is for the best. Let’s hope it is for the people, for the benefit of the people,” said Oscar-winning music composer AR Rahman, who voted in Chennai.
Well, Rahman and others in Tamil Nadu will have to wait for six weeks to know the result – June 4 to be precise when votes will be counted.
The next phase of voting is on April 26, when 89 parliamentary constituencies will be involved.
That will be followed by phase 3 (May 7, 94 constituencies), phase 4 (May 13, 96 constituencies), phase 5 (May 20, 49 constituencies), phase 6 (May 25, 57 constituencies) and phase 7 (June 1, 57 constituencies).
