Voters Barred from Carrying Mobile Phones at Chennai Polling Stations

As brisk polling continues in Tamil Nadu for the 2024 general election, authorities have reported a voter turnout of 12.55% as of 9 AM.

While measures have been taken to ensure amenities for voters, some issues have arisen at polling stations across Chennai. In particular, arguments broke out between voters and officials over the prohibition of carrying smartphones and mobile phones inside the voting booths.

Despite the early morning altercations, prominent figures such as Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, actor Rajinikanth, and music composer Ilaiyaraaja were among those who cast their votes in the initial hours of polling. The selfie points set up outside the polling booths have proven to be a major attraction, especially for first-time and young voters eager to commemorate their participation in the democratic process.

However, the ban on mobile phones inside the polling booths has caused frustration among some voters. Officials have stood firm on the policy, insisting that it is necessary to maintain the integrity of the voting process and prevent any potential interference or unauthorized recording. Voters have been advised to leave their devices with family members or friends before entering the polling stations.

Why this matters: The restriction on mobile phones at polling booths highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing voter convenience with the need to ensure a fair and secure election process. As technology becomes increasingly integrated into daily life, election authorities must continually adapt their policies to address potential risks while still encouraging voter participation.

Apart from the mobile phone controversy, polling has been largely smooth across the state. However, there have been isolated incidents, such as the residents of some villages near Sriperumbudur boycotting the election in protest of a proposed airport project in their region. Technical glitches in electronic voting machines also caused delays of up to an hour in some polling booths.

To handle the massive undertaking of the general election, Tamil Nadu has deployed 3,32,233 polling personnel across 68,321 polling stations. The fate of 950 candidates vying for office will be decided by approximately 6.23 crore eligible voters. As one election official stated, "We have made all necessary arrangements to ensure a smooth and fair voting process. We urge all voters to exercise their democratic right and participate in this crucial election."

Key Takeaways

• Voter turnout was at 12.55% as of 9 AM in Tamil Nadu's 2024 general election.
• Controversy over ban on mobile phones inside polling booths, affecting voter convenience.
• Prominent figures like CM Stalin, Rajinikanth cast votes, selfie points attract young voters.
• Isolated incidents of polling booth boycotts and technical glitches in EVMs reported.
• Over 6.23 crore eligible voters to decide fate of 950 candidates across 68,321 stations.