The Lok Sabha Elections 2024 have reached a critical juncture as Phase 4 unfolds on May 13. This phase encompasses diverse constituencies, each with its unique dynamics and electoral battles. In this comprehensive analysis, we delve into the key battlegrounds, prominent candidates, and voter sentiments that will shape India’s political landscape.
Constituencies
in Focus
1. Patna
Sahib, Bihar
- Incumbent MP: Ravi
Shankar Prasad (BJP)
- Challenger:
Shatrughan Sinha (Congress)
- Context:
- Ravi Shankar Prasad, a prominent BJP leader, emphasizes digital
governance, economic reforms, and national security.
- Shatrughan Sinha, a veteran actor-turned-politician, campaigns on
social justice, secularism, and youth empowerment.
2.
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
- Incumbent MP:
Narendra Modi (BJP)
- Challenger: Ajay
Rai (Congress)
- Significance:
- Varanasi, the spiritual heart of India, witnesses a high-profile
contest. Narendra Modi seeks re-election from this historic city.
- Ajay Rai, a local leader, aims to challenge Modi’s dominance. The
Ganga’s rejuvenation and heritage preservation are key issues here.
3.
Bhubaneswar, Odisha
- Incumbent MP:
Aparajita Sarangi (BJP)
- Challenger: Arup
Patnaik (BJD)
- Background:
- Aparajita Sarangi, a former bureaucrat, focuses on urban
development, clean governance, and women’s safety.
- Arup Patnaik, a retired IPS officer, campaigns on regional pride,
infrastructure, and employment generation.
Here
are some of the major controversies related to Phase 4 of the Lok Sabha Elections 2024:
- Candidates with Criminal Cases:
- All major parties contesting in Phase 4 fielded candidates with
criminal cases against them. According to data by the Association for Democratic
Reforms (ADR), the percentage of candidates with criminal cases increased
from 18% in Phase 3 to 21% in Phase 41.
- Incidents of Violence and EVM Malfunctioning:
- During Phase 4, incidents of violence were reported in some
states. Additionally, there were cases of Electronic Voting
Machines (EVM) malfunctioning, which raised concerns about the electoral
process2.
- Supreme Court’s Decision on EVMs:
- In March 2024, the Supreme Court of India rejected a petition by
the Congress Party to end the usage of electronic voting machines (EVMs)
and revert to paper ballots and manual counting. The Congress Party cited risks of electoral fraud, but
the court upheld the use of EVMs3.
- Campaigning and Political Rhetoric:
- During the run-up to Phase 4, Prime Minister Narendra Modi
continued his onslaught on the Congress Party over issues of corruption
and wealth redistribution. Meanwhile, the opposition INDIA
bloc focused on its “save democracy” plea4.
These controversies highlight the intensity
and significance of Phase 4 in shaping India’s political landscape.
Voter
Sentiments
1. National
vs. Regional
- Voters weigh the balance between national and regional interests.
Parties must strike a chord with both to secure victory.
2. Economy
and Jobs
- The economic revival remains a central theme. Job creation,
investment, and poverty alleviation are critical concerns.
3. Social
Issues
- Caste dynamics, religious identity, and social welfare policies
influence voter choices. Parties tailor their messages accordingly.
Exit Polls
and Predictions
Exit polls hint at a mixed outcome. While some
predict a clear majority for one party, others foresee a hung parliament. The
final results remain uncertain, adding suspense to the electoral drama.
Conclusion
Phase 4 of the Lok Sabha Elections 2024 is a
pivotal moment in India’s democratic saga. As citizens cast their votes, they
shape the nation’s destiny. Let us await the verdict and celebrate the spirit
of democracy.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this
article are solely those of the author and do not represent any political party
or organization.
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