Kharge Urges Voters to Protect Constitution and Democracy in Lok Sabha Polls

As the first phase of the Lok Sabha elections kicked off on April 19, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge called on voters to carefully cast their ballots to protect the Constitution and democracy. Kharge expressed confidence that voters will choose the Congress party's agenda of 'NYAY' (justice) for various sections of society over the false promises of the incumbent government.

"A new era of economic empowerment and equal opportunities awaits the voters," Kharge said in a statement. He urged citizens, especially first-time voters, to exercise their democratic right and vote in large numbers.

The Congress president emphasized the party's commitment to delivering justice to the youth, women, farmers, and marginalized communities. He contrasted this with what he called the 'jumlas' or false promises of the current government.

Why this matters: The Lok Sabha elections are a crucial test for India's democracy, with the outcome set to shape the country's political and economic landscape for the next five years. The Congress party's focus on social and economic justice is a key plank of its campaign strategy as it seeks to unseat the ruling BJP.

Voting is underway in 102 Lok Sabha seats across 21 states and Union territories in the first of the seven-phase electoral exercise. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also appealed to voters to turn out in record numbers.

Other political leaders also made appeals to the electorate as voting began. Rahul Gandhi of the Congress urged voters to strengthen democracy and defeat hatred. BJP leader Amit Shah called on people to choose a strong and decisive leader who has shown determination to free the country from corruption, nepotism, and appeasement.

The counting of votes in the elections, which will conclude on June 1, will be taken up on June 4. The high-stakes contest between the ruling BJP and the opposition parties led by the Congress will determine who governs the world's largest democracy for the next five years.

Key Takeaways

• Congress chief Kharge calls on voters to protect Constitution and democracy.
• Kharge expresses confidence in Congress' 'NYAY' agenda over govt's false promises.
• Lok Sabha elections seen as crucial test for India's democracy.
• PM Modi, other leaders appeal to voters as first phase of voting begins.
• Counting of votes on June 4 to determine next government.