The fourth phase of the Lok Sabha elections saw a robust turnout of over 62% across 96 constituencies in 10 states and Union Territories. Notably, West Bengal recorded the highest polling with 75.66%, followed by Madhya Pradesh at 68.01%. However, Jammu and Kashmir and Maharashtra lagged behind with 35.75% and 52.49% respectively.
While the polling process was largely peaceful, incidents of violence were reported in Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal. Additionally, malfunctioning Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) were reported in some booths in West Bengal and Odisha.
In Andhra Pradesh, the TDP and YSRCP traded allegations of violence, particularly in Palnadu, Kadapa, and Annamayya districts. Meanwhile, in Telangana, BJP candidate K Madhavi Latha faced criticism for allegedly asking women voters to lift their burqa at a polling booth.
Srinagar witnessed voting amidst concerns over low turnout and acrimonious campaigning. The absence of the ruling BJP from contesting in the region raised eyebrows, and some displaced Kashmiri Pandits in Jammu couldn’t vote due to missing names from the electoral rolls.
This phase featured 1,717 candidates vying for seats across Lok Sabha, with over 17.70 crore eligible voters, including 8.73 crore women. With this phase, polling concludes in 379 out of 543 seats. The subsequent phases are scheduled for May 20, May 25, and June 1, with vote counting set for June 4.
