Voting is currently underway across various constituencies in phase 5 of the Lok Sabha Elections 2024, spanning six states and two Union territories.
NEW DELHI :Voting is currently underway across various constituencies in phase 5 of the Lok Sabha Elections 2024, spanning six states and two Union territories.
According to the Election Commission of India (ECI), as of 11 am, the voter turnout stood at 23.6 percent. West Bengal recorded the highest turnout with 33 percent, followed by Ladakh with 27.8 percent, Uttar Pradesh with 27.7 percent, and Jharkhand with 26 percent. However, Baramulla seat in Jammu & Kashmir reported a turnout of 21.3 percent, while Maharashtra registered about 16 percent.
In Maharashtra, where polling began at 7 am, Bollywood celebrities were seen exercising their franchise. Notable personalities such as Janhvi Kapoor, Tabu, Akshay Kumar, Farhan Akhtar, Rajkummar Rao, and Paresh Rawal were spotted casting their votes. Janhvi Kapoor, dressed in a pink suit, and Tabu, in a white shirt and navy blue trousers, displayed their inked fingers to the paparazzi. Similarly, Shahid Kapoor shared a selfie after voting, urging everyone to cast their vote as “every vote matters.”
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Even Aamir Khan’s children, Ira Khan and Junaid Khan, participated in the electoral process, showcasing the importance of voting. Meanwhile, veterans like Mahesh Bhatt and Paresh Rawal also exercised their democratic right. Sanya Malhotra, Shriya Saran, Pooja Bhatt, Akshay Kumar, and Farhan Akhtar, among others, contributed to the electoral process.
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Akshay Kumar, in particular, emphasized the significance of voting for India’s development and strength, especially since this is his first time voting after acquiring Indian citizenship. He stated, “I want my India to be developed and strong and I kept these things in my mind when I went to cast my vote. All Indians should think what is right for them and vote.” Similarly, Farhan Akhtar stressed on good governance and urged young people to step out and vote despite the prevailing heatwave conditions, saying, “My vote is for good governance, the government that looks after all the people, gives us a better city.”
The polling in Maharashtra covered 13 Lok Sabha constituencies, including six in Mumbai. As the day progresses, more citizens are expected to turn out to cast their votes, contributing to the democratic process. With various celebrities setting an example by exercising their franchise, the importance of participation in the electoral process is highlighted, ensuring a vibrant democracy in the country