Voters in 12 states and one union territory are participating in the second phase of the general election
Over 160 million Indians are casting their votes on Friday despite an intense heat wave that is sweeping the country. The second (of seven) phase of the polling process is being conducted in 88 parliamentary constituencies across 12 states and the Jammu and Kashmir union territory. The elections, which will take place until June 1, will decide who gets a total of 543 seats in the lower house of parliament (Lok Sabha).
Rahul Gandhi, the de facto leader of the Congress, India’s largest opposition party, is contesting from the Amethi constituency in the state of Kerala. The incumbent is facing off against Annie Raja of the Communist Party of India (Marxist). Both parties are part of the INDIA alliance, which is challenging the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Kerala’s capital Thiruvananthapuram has seen one of the most intriguing contests for a parliamentary seat. Shashi Tharoor, who is seeking a fourth term as MP, is being challenged by BJP leader Rajeev Chandrasekhar, a minister in Modi’s cabinet.
Polling Station Queues Building in India – Spirits Remain High Despite the Heat!
Video shows men and women turning out in Rajasthan's Barmer to cast their votes.#LokSabhaElections2024 | #Elections2024 pic.twitter.com/ldcFI7vV1Y
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