Madhya Pradesh Records 67.08% Voter Turnout in First Phase of Lok Sabha Elections

The first phase of the Lok Sabha elections in Madhya Pradesh saw an overall voter turnout of 67.08% in the six constituencies that went to the polls on April 19, 2024. The maximum turnout was recorded in Chhindwara at 79.18%, while the lowest was in Sidhi at 55.19%. Mandla and Balaghat constituencies also saw over 70% voter participation.

Voting was largely peaceful, with only minor clashes reported between BJP and Congress supporters in Chhindwara. The elections saw historic participation in Naxal-affected areas, indicating a strong voter turnout in these regions as well. In the Naxal-influenced Baihar and Paraswada assembly constituencies under the Balaghat Lok Sabha seat, polling was held from 7 am to 4 pm for security reasons. One polling center in the Dublai area of Baihar constituency registered 100% voting.

Former Chief Minister Kamal Nath, his son Nakul Nath who is contesting from the Chhindwara Lok Sabha seat, and their spouses were among the early voters. The BJP is aiming to sweep all 29 seats in Madhya Pradesh this time, including Chhindwara which has traditionally been a Congress stronghold. The Nath father-son duo made emotional appeals to the voters, highlighting the constituency's development under their leadership.

Why this matters: The high voter turnout in the first phase of the Lok Sabha elections in Madhya Pradesh, especially in Naxal-affected areas, signifies the strong democratic participation of the electorate. The outcome of these elections will have a significant impact on the political landscape of the state and the country as a whole.

A total of 88 candidates, including 81 men and 7 women, were in the fray in the six constituencies in this phase. The Lok Sabha elections in Madhya Pradesh are scheduled across four phases, with the remaining phases to be held on April 26, May 7, and May 13. The state's electoral office is yet to release the final voter turnout figures as polling went on till late Friday evening. The results will be announced on June 4.

Key Takeaways

• Voter turnout in MP's 1st phase Lok Sabha polls was 67.08%, with Chhindwara at 79.18%.
• Voting was largely peaceful, with historic turnout in Naxal-affected areas.
• Former CM Kamal Nath and son Nakul Nath were among early voters in Chhindwara.
• BJP aims to sweep all 29 seats in MP, including Chhindwara, a Congress stronghold.
• MP Lok Sabha polls spread across 4 phases, with results to be announced on June 4.