The final phase of Lok Sabha elections began on Saturday, with voting starting at 7 am across 57 parliamentary constituencies in seven states and the Union Territory of Chandigarh. This phase concludes a month-long polling marathon, covering six previous phases and 486 seats.
Over 10.06 crore voters, including approximately 5.24 crore male, 4.82 crore female, and 3574 third gender electors, are expected to vote. Mock polls were conducted at various booths to ensure preparedness. Special measures, such as additional trains and helicopter sorties, have been taken to facilitate smooth voting, especially in adverse weather conditions.
Prominent candidates include Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP leaders Ravi Shankar Prasad and Nishikant Dubey, Congress leaders Manish Tewari and Charanjit Singh Channi, and actor-turned-politician Kangana Ranaut. The final phase also sees by-polls for six assembly seats in Himachal Pradesh.
The Election Commission has ensured polling stations are equipped with essential facilities and security measures, with strict surveillance to prevent any malpractice. The counting of votes is scheduled for June 4, with exit polls to be aired after voting concludes on June 1.