New Delhi: The Election Commission of India (ECI) is all set for Phase 3 of the Lok Sabha polls scheduled for tomorrow. With normal weather conditions predicted, the commission has ensured meticulous arrangements at all polling stations to facilitate voters, including provisions for water, shamianas, and fans to tackle hot weather conditions.
To address any medical emergencies, fixed-wing air ambulances and Pawan Hans helicopters have been stationed for emergency medical duties in Raipur.
Encouraging higher voter turnout, the Commission has urged citizens to cast their votes responsibly and with pride. Partnering with major telecom service providers such as Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd., Bharti Airtel Limited, Jio Telecommunication, and Vodafone-Idea Ltd., the ECI has facilitated messages and voice calls featuring national and state icons to encourage voter participation.
In a bid to enhance transparency, the ECI has implemented measures for disclosures and transparency in its operations. Voter turnout at each polling station is recorded in absolute numbers in Form 17C, with copies of the form shared with all present polling agents, ensuring booth-wise data of actual votes polled is available. Additionally, the ECI Voter Turnout app provides tentative turnout figures, accessible to stakeholders and the media.
Polling is scheduled in 93 constituencies across 11 states and union territories. Notably, polling for the Anantnag-Rajouri parliamentary constituency in Jammu and Kashmir has been rescheduled to the Sixth Phase. Similarly, polling will not take place in the Surat parliamentary constituency, as the candidate has been elected unopposed.
The remaining four phases of polls will continue until June 1, with counting of votes scheduled for June 4. Phase 3 will witness the visit of a large number of foreign delegates to observe India’s polling process and management, with 75 delegates from 23 countries visiting polling stations across six states as part of the International Election Visitor Programme.
Polling parties have been dispatched with electronic voting machines (EVMs) and poll materials to their respective polling stations. Notable efforts include Sashastra Seema Bal troops deployed on boats to polling stations in the South Salmara Mankachar parliamentary constituency in Assam, and polling personnel navigating the river Kosi on boats to reach polling stations in Supaul, Bihar.