Hyderabad witnessed a star-studded start to its voting on Monday as prominent Telugu actors Allu Arjun and NTR Jr made their appearance at the polling booth in Jubilee Hills. The ‘Pushpa’ star, Allu Arjun, arrived clad in a simple yet stylish white t-shirt and black jeans, while ‘RRR’ fame NTR Jr opted for a classic blue shirt and trousers. Both stars joined millions of voters as they exercised their democratic right in the fourth phase of the Lok Sabha elections.
The fourth phase commenced at 7:00 am, covering 96 Parliamentary Constituencies across nine states and one Union Territory. This phase is critical, as it also includes polling for all 175 seats of the State Legislative Assembly of Andhra Pradesh and 28 seats of the State Legislative Assembly of Odisha, making it a significant day in Indian politics.
According to the election commission, out of the 96 Lok Sabha seats up for grabs in this phase, Andhra Pradesh has the highest number with 25 seats, followed by Telangana with 17. Uttar Pradesh is contending for 13 seats, while Maharashtra has 11. Madhya Pradesh and West Bengal each have eight seats. Bihar is looking at five seats, and Jharkhand and Odisha each have four. Jammu and Kashmir have one seat in this phase.
Noteworthy political figures are competing in this phase, making it even more intense and closely watched. Leaders such as AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, West Bengal Congress chief Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, TMC leader Mahua Moitra, and BJP leader Giriraj Singh are among those looking to secure a win. Additionally, JDU’s Rajiv Ranjan Singh, TMC leaders Shatrughan Sinha and Yusuf Pathan, BJP leaders Arjun Munda and Madhavi Latha, and Andhra Pradesh Congress Chief YS Sharmila are also in the fray.
Before today, polling in the first three phases of the Lok Sabha elections has completed smoothly and peacefully in 283 constituencies, setting a hopeful precedence for the ongoing phase. Election officials have reported no significant disturbances, and security measures remain stringent to ensure a smooth voting process.
The star presence of Allu Arjun and NTR Jr at the Jubilee Hills polling station brought a sense of excitement among the fans and voters. Social media buzzed with updates and pictures of the two stars fulfilling their civic duty. Videos and images of Allu Arjun and NTR Jr casting their votes quickly went viral, garnering praise from their followers for leading by example.
PIC: Telangana: Actor Allu Arjun flashes his inked finger after casting his vote in Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad #LokSabhaElections2024 pic.twitter.com/9yLyk93CdH
— ANI (@ANI) May 13, 2024
The participation of celebrities in voting often encourages their fans to follow suit, enhancing voter turnout, which remains a critical factor in the democratic process. The Election Commission continues to emphasize the importance of each vote, urging citizens to come out and participate in shaping the future of the country.
In addition to the Lok Sabha seats, the simultaneous assembly elections in Andhra Pradesh and Odisha are equally crucial. In Andhra Pradesh, political dynamics have seen significant shifts with regional parties battling it out for dominance. Similarly, in Odisha, the focus is on maintaining or challenging the status quo as contestants vie for the 28 assembly seats.
The overall mood across the voting centers has been spirited, with people of all ages and backgrounds lining up to cast their votes. First-time voters, senior citizens, and even persons with disabilities have been seen enthusiastically participating, proving the robust spirit of Indian democracy.
Election officials have remarked on the increased voter awareness and engagement in this phase. Various voter education programs and appeals by public figures have positively influenced the turnout. The availability of adequate booths, trained personnel, and vigilant security arrangements have ensured a fair voting environment.
As India progresses through each election phase, the role of centralized efforts and local leaders continues to shape the outcomes. With 96 seats under contention, this phase has a substantial impact on the overall results. Every vote cast today brings the nation a step closer to determining its representatives and, by extension, its policies for the coming years.
The final results of the Lok Sabha elections are keenly awaited, with anticipation building as each day of polling concludes. The Election Commission will continue to provide updates and ensure transparency throughout the process. Meanwhile, citizens and partisans alike watch closely, hopeful and expectant for a future steered by their chosen leaders.
