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CEC Rajiv Kumar Shared his Post-Retirement Plans

January 7, 2025, 4:31 pm

During the Election Commission of India’s presser to announce the 2025 Delhi election dates, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar captivated everyone with his poetic flair, using ‘shayari‘ or Urdu poetry to add a unique touch to the proceedings. While addressing the media during the announcement of the Delhi Assembly election 2025, CEC Rajiv Kumar shared his post-retirement plans.

While asking a question on his post-retirement plans after the presser, CEC Rajiv Kumar said “I have been working in very intense and impactful places for the last 12-14 years, but I did not get much time. I will detoxify myself for 4 to 5 months and go to deep Himalayas or be away from the glare of all of you or the public.”

Rajiv Kumar was Appointed as CEC on May 15th, 2022, and will conclude on February 18th, 2025, after the Delhi Assembly Election.

CEC Rajiv Kumar’s Inspiration Goals

Rajiv Kumar’s retirement goals serve as an inspiration for many. His post-retirement plans the importance of mental health and the need for a break from the fast-paced life. He stated, “I need some Ekant, Swadhyay, or some meditation which I will do and thereafter 4 to 5 months I will devote myself fully to the charity.” “I studied in a municipal school to have a tapper in my hand and we didn’t have a roof in school. So as a passion, I will go back to those roots, and teach those children” he added.

The announcement of the Delhi Assembly Election was the last presser by CEC Rajiv Kumar as CEC. Gyanesh Kumar will succeed Rajiv Kumar as the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC).

CEC Condemns Derogatory Remarks Against Women in Election Campaign, Directs Stern Action

November 8, 2024, 5:13 pm

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar on Friday voiced a strong condemnation of offensive remarks directed at women leaders. Sources from the Chief Electoral Office of Maharashtra that Kumar called for “timely and stern action” against any derogatory statements made by candidates, emphasizing the importance of preserving the dignity and respect of women in public discourse.

During a detailed review meeting with District Election Officers, Police Commissioners, Superintendents of Police, Municipal Commissioners, and Returning Officers, the CEC expressed grave concern over the increasing use of language that undermines the honor of women in politics. The review meeting served as a platform for Kumar to underline the Election Commission’s commitment to respectful campaign conduct, particularly regarding the treatment of women in leadership positions.

According to sources, Kumar firmly reminded political parties and candidates of their responsibility to avoid actions or statements that could be seen as demeaning to women. He underscored that political criticism should not encroach upon any aspects of private life unrelated to public activities, and that low-level personal attacks should be completely off-limits in the campaign discourse.

The CEC directed officials to ensure that any derogatory comments or actions in violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) should prompt immediate and strong responses. Kumar urged authorities to remain vigilant and take appropriate measures to protect the dignity of women, stressing that any language disrespectful to women would not be tolerated under the MCC’s provisions.

Kumar expressed hope that all candidates and party leaders would elevate their rhetoric and demonstrate respect towards women, both in their speeches and interactions with the public. This call for accountability reflects the Election Commission’s stance on fostering a more inclusive and respectful electoral environment, prioritizing the dignity of women in political spaces.

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This directive follows the Election Commission of India’s ongoing efforts to curb disrespectful language in political campaigns. Earlier in April 2024, the Commission had issued notices to political leaders across various states for making offensive remarks against women, highlighting its consistent commitment to ensuring respectful campaign practices across the country.

CEC Rajiv Kumar Dismisses Allegations of EVM Battery Level Discrepancies, Assures Robust Security

October 16, 2024, 7:07 am

In response to allegations concerning ‘varying EVM battery levels,’ Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar has firmly stated that Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) are entirely “safe and robust.” He compared the batteries in EVMs to those in calculators, explaining that they are not like mobile phone batteries that require daily charging.

Three-Layer Security for EVMs

During a press conference, CEC Kumar elaborated on the security features of the EVMs, emphasizing that they are equipped with three layers of security, which includes the batteries. At each level, signatures from representatives of political parties are taken to ensure transparency. “People ask if pagers can be hacked, then why not EVMs? Pagers are connected devices, but EVMs are not,” he clarified. This explanation came while announcing the election dates for the Maharashtra and Jharkhand assemblies.

He referred to Israel’s past hacking of pagers belonging to Hezbollah as an example but stressed that EVMs operate on a different, more secure system. EVMs use single-use batteries, with political party representatives signing off on them to confirm their integrity. “These batteries are like those in calculators, and one battery can last for around five years. When the machine is commissioned, the battery is installed, and even the battery is signed by party representatives,” Kumar added.

EVMs Are Sealed and Double-Locked

Further explaining the EVM security measures, Kumar pointed out that when the EVMs are sealed, they undergo a double-lock process, and there is three-layer security in place, including the presence of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and election observers. He assured that the entire process is videographed to maintain complete transparency. “On the day of polling, the same process is repeated, ensuring there is no room for tampering,” he said.

Kumar highlighted that this comprehensive system is a rare example of public disclosure and participation, urging critics to point out any other system as robust as this one.

Addressing Complaints About EVMs

The Congress party raised 20 complaints related to EVMs, which CEC Kumar promised would be addressed individually. He stated that the Election Commission of India (ECI) would respond to each complaint in detail, providing candidates with specific answers. “We have received about 20 complaints regarding EVMs, and we will respond to each one fact by fact. This is our responsibility, and we will publish our responses for everyone to see,” Kumar assured.

Congress Alleges Battery Level Discrepancies Affected Poll Results

The Congress party had previously alleged that varying EVM battery levels across polling stations in Haryana may have influenced the election outcome on October 8, 2024, when the BJP secured a third consecutive victory. According to Congress, the BJP won in polling stations where the EVMs showed a 99% battery charge, while Congress performed better on machines with lower battery levels.

Congress leader Pawan Khera highlighted the issue in an interview with ANI, stating, “We have submitted a list of 20 seats to the Election Commission, where our candidates reported concerns about EVM battery levels. It seems like a strange coincidence that Congress lost on machines with 99% battery charge, while we won on those showing 60-70% charge. Why did this happen?”

BJP Secures Victory Despite Anti-Incumbency

Despite facing 10 years of anti-incumbency, the BJP managed to secure 48 out of 90 seats in the Haryana Assembly, while Congress won 37 seats. Independents secured three seats, and the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) won two seats. Congress’s concerns over the EVM battery levels came after they were unable to capitalize on the anti-incumbency sentiment against the BJP government.

This controversy surrounding EVM battery levels has added a new layer to the post-election discussions, with the Congress party seeking further clarification from the Election Commission.

History in making: CEC Rajiv Kumar Lauds Voter Turnout in 2nd Phase Voting

September 26, 2024, 4:17 am

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar hailed the ongoing Assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir as “history in the making” on Wednesday, highlighting the significant voter turnout in areas that once witnessed calls for boycotting the democratic process.
Addressing reporters as the second phase of polling unfolded across 26 seats in the Union Territory, Kumar emphasized the remarkable shift in voter engagement. “It is a festival of democracy,” he said, noting that voters, including youngsters, women, and senior citizens, were standing patiently in long queues outside polling stations. “Voting is taking place in areas where it did not take place earlier. There were calls for disruption and boycott in the past. It is a standing ovation for democracy.”
The CEC pointed out that 100 percent CCTV coverage had been implemented for this phase, ensuring transparency throughout the electoral process. Joining him were fellow election commissioners Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu.
Kumar underscored the lasting significance of the polls, stating, “History is in the making in Jammu and Kashmir, and its impact will be felt for a long time.” He commended the voters for their enthusiastic participation, marking a new chapter in the region’s democratic journey.

CEC Rajiv Kumar Ensures Election Commission’s Preparedness For Free And Fair Election In J&K

August 22, 2024, 9:59 pm

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar on Thursday asserted that despite attempts by certain forces to disrupt the upcoming Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, the Election Commission of India (ECI) is fully equipped to ensure free and fair elections. Kumar emphasised that “the ballot is the answer to such forces.”

“There are forces determined to disrupt the election process, but we are fully prepared, and the ballot is the answer to such forces,” CEC Kumar stated after briefing election observers for Jammu and Kashmir and Haryana.

Speaking to the media, Kumar detailed the preparations, saying, “We briefed election observers today. General, Police, and Expenditure Observers from several states attended the briefing. Observers were instructed to be accessible to political parties and candidates to address grievances and ensure strict adherence to election rules.”

Kumar underscored that the ECI is vigilant and ready to tackle any challenges that may arise during the elections in both J&K and Haryana.

“The world is watching the elections in J&K. Some forces are adamant about disrupting the election process, but we are ready to handle them. During the Lok Sabha elections, we witnessed tremendous enthusiasm in J&K, with record voter turnout. I believe the ballot is the answer to everything. The people of J&K will shape their destiny with their own hands by participating in the voting process,” he added.

The CEC also highlighted the Commission’s preparedness to combat misinformation and fake narratives during the election period.

“We are vigilant and will respond promptly to such false narratives. Our officers will closely monitor these issues,” he said.

The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections will be conducted in three phases: September 18, September 25, and October 1, covering a total of 90 Assembly constituencies. The last Assembly elections in the region were held in 2014.

The Election Commission has also scheduled Haryana’s Assembly elections for October 1, with results for both regions to be counted on October 4.

The notification for the first phase of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections was unveiled on Monday, marking a significant milestone in the 2024 electoral process. Voting for the first phase, which includes 24 constituencies, is scheduled for September 18. Candidates have until August 27 to submit their nominations, with scrutiny on August 28 and the final withdrawal date on August 30.

Ballot Is Answer to Disruptors, Says Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar

August 22, 2024, 4:32 pm

Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar affirmed on Thursday that the upcoming Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir will proceed as planned despite attempts by certain forces to disrupt the process. Kumar emphasized that “the ballot is the answer to such forces” and reassured that the Election Commission of India (ECI) is prepared to conduct a free and fair election.

Addressing election observers for Jammu and Kashmir and Haryana, Kumar stated, “We briefed election observers today, including General, Police, and Expenditure Observers from several states. They were instructed to be available to political parties and candidates to address any grievances and ensure adherence to election rules.”

Kumar noted that there is significant global attention on the Jammu and Kashmir elections and highlighted the ECI’s readiness to counter any fake narratives. He praised the high voter turnout during the Lok Sabha elections and expressed confidence that the people of Jammu and Kashmir will participate actively in the upcoming Assembly elections.

The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections will be held in three phases: September 18, September 25, and October 1, covering 90 constituencies. The previous assembly elections in the region were conducted in 2014. Voting for the first phase, which will cover 24 constituencies, is scheduled for September 18. Candidates have until August 27 to submit their nominations, with scrutiny on August 28 and the final withdrawal date on August 30.

Haryana’s assembly elections are set for October 1, with results for both Jammu and Kashmir and Haryana to be counted on October 4. The notification for the first phase of Jammu and Kashmir’s Assembly elections was issued on Monday, marking a key milestone in the 2024 electoral process.

Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar Highlights Voter Enthusiasm in J&K and Haryana

August 16, 2024, 3:46 pm

Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar recently provided an update on election preparations in Jammu & Kashmir and Haryana, showcasing the high levels of public enthusiasm in these regions. During his visit, Kumar observed a strong desire among the residents to participate in the electoral process, with many expressing eagerness for elections to be held as soon as possible.

Kumar highlighted the remarkable turnout in Jammu & Kashmir during the Lok Sabha elections, noting the long queues at polling booths as a clear indication of the people’s demand for change. He remarked, “The long queues at the polling booths in J&K are proof that people not only want change but also wish to raise their voices by being part of that change.”

He praised the residents for their commitment to democratic values, stating, “This glimpse of hope and democracy shows that the people want to change the picture. They want to write their own destiny. The people of Jammu and Kashmir chose ballot over bullet in the Lok Sabha elections.”

The Chief Election Commissioner’s comments underline a significant shift towards democratic engagement in the region, reflecting the public’s aspiration for a more active role in shaping their future.

WATCH: CEC Rajiv Kumar Hails 2024 Lok Sabha Elections as a Global Milestone

August 16, 2024, 3:24 pm

In a recent statement, Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar praised the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, calling them “the biggest election process at the world level.” He emphasized the successful and peaceful completion of the elections, highlighting the democratic significance of the event.

Kumar described the elections as having created “a very strongly democratic surface for the entire democratic world,” noting the absence of violence and the widespread celebration of the electoral process across the country.

He also underscored the historic achievement of the elections, stating, “We made many records. For the first time, the maximum polling took place in the world.” This record-setting voter turnout reflects India’s commitment to democratic participation and the effective management of one of the largest electoral exercises globally.

The Chief Election Commissioner’s remarks underscore the scale and impact of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, reinforcing India’s role as a vibrant and democratic nation on the global stage.

CEC Rajiv Kumar Promises Early Jammu & Kashmir Assembly Polls, Awaiting Security Review

August 9, 2024, 5:10 pm

Srinagar, Aug 9: Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar has maintained that the exact dates for the Jammu & Kashmir Assembly elections will be announced after the Election Commission conducts a final security requirement assessment in Delhi. Despite this uncertainty, Kumar assured that the Election Commission (EC) is dedicated to holding the Assembly polls at the earliest, emphasizing that minor attempts to disrupt the process would not derail the electoral exercise.

In a press conference held in Jammu, Kumar, addressed concerns about potential security threats and stressed that the situation would not result in a “Chicken and Egg” scenario. “Our forces are fully capable of handling the situation. We will not allow these small attempts to derail the election process in Jammu & Kashmir,” he stated. He also mentioned that exact poll dates would be determined following a comprehensive security assessment conducted in Delhi.

Kumar highlighted that all political parties in Jammu & Kashmir are united in their desire for early elections. “The feedback we received from security heads, administrative officers, and district police chiefs indicates that while there are some security challenges, they are prepared to ensure peaceful elections,” he added.

The CEC, who was accompanied by two Election Commissioners, noted that his previous visit to the region was related to the Lok Sabha elections. “Following the delimitation of Jammu & Kashmir in May 2022 and the passage of the J&K Reorganisation Act in December, we began preparations for elections,” Kumar said. He praised the high voter turnout during the Lok Sabha polls and the ongoing Amarnath Yatra, highlighting the notable participation of women and youth.

Political parties in Srinagar and Jammu had commended the EC for the peaceful conduct of the Lok Sabha elections and requested specific measures, including polling booths within a two-kilometer radius and CCTV coverage of polling stations. Kumar confirmed that these demands have been addressed and instructions have been issued accordingly.

In response to concerns about the Supreme Court’s deadline for September, Kumar emphasized that no internal or external forces would delay the elections. “The people of Jammu & Kashmir will give a strong response to any disruptive forces,” he asserted.

The CEC also addressed requests for a level playing field for political parties and streamlined security for politicians. “We have taken note of these demands and will ensure that there is a fair playing field and a comprehensive security review for politicians,” Kumar said. He added that polling stations would not be merged at the last minute except for a few cases due to geographical constraints.

Opposition Questions Delay In Final Voter Turnout, EC Defends Counting Process

June 3, 2024, 4:44 pm

A day before the Lok Sabha election results, Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar addressed concerns over the delay in releasing the final voter turnout, asserting that the Election Commission’s counting mechanism is robust and error-free. His statements came amid criticism from opposition parties, particularly the Congress, regarding discrepancies in voter turnout data.

EC Defends Voter Turnout Reporting

Rajiv Kumar, speaking at a press conference in New Delhi on Monday, refuted the accusations, stating, “…We failed to understand the fake narratives of the faulty voter lists and turnout data that were going on during the elections. But we have understood it now.” Without naming specific parties, Kumar addressed the widespread scepticism.

The Congress had previously questioned the significant disparity between real-time voter turnout data and the final figures released by the Election Commission, suggesting that voters were uneasy about the perceived irregularities. Other opposition parties echoed these concerns, calling attention to the delay in the final voter turnout announcement.

Counting Process Clarified

Rajiv Kumar clarified the counting process, noting that the counting of postal ballots would commence before that of electronic voting machines (EVMs). “Section 54 A of RPA Act was introduced in 1954. At that time, there were not many people for postal ballots. On all centres, counting of postal ballots will start first. After only half an hour, EVM counting will start,” Kumar explained. He emphasized that this procedure was followed in previous elections, including the 2019 general elections and the 2022 Assembly elections.

Challenge to Opposition

In response to allegations from Congress leader Jairam Ramesh, who claimed that Union Home Minister Amit Shah had contacted 150 district magistrates before the vote counting, Kumar challenged the opposition to provide evidence. “The entire counting process is absolutely robust. We don’t think anywhere there is a robust system like it. Every part is decided. The whole process is codified,” he stated, highlighting the presence of counting officials, agents, and observers throughout the process.

As the nation awaits the Lok Sabha election results, the Election Commission’s defence underscores its commitment to transparency and accuracy. The opposition’s concerns, however, reflect a broader tension and scrutiny surrounding the electoral process, which remains a cornerstone of India’s democracy.

CEC Rajiv Kumar Addresses Electoral Transparency Following SC’s Verdict

May 25, 2024, 12:04 pm

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar exercised his voting rights at a polling booth in Delhi, emphasizing the importance of dispelling doubts and suspicions surrounding electoral processes, in light of the recent Supreme Court decision on Form 17C data and booth-wise voter turnout.

Speaking on the Supreme Court’s decision to decline passing any direction on the Election Commission’s handling of Form 17C data, CEC Rajiv Kumar pledged to address concerns and reveal the truth behind any misleading information. “An attempt is made to create an atmosphere of doubt. We will discuss this with everyone one day for sure,” Kumar asserted.

Furthermore, Kumar underscored the EC’s commitment to transparency, stating, “What’s the play here, why are doubts created, and why are suspicions raised, we will reveal all of this one day and show everyone how people are misled.”

The Supreme Court’s decision not to intervene in the uploading of Form 17C data comes amid ongoing discussions about electoral transparency and accountability. CEC Rajiv Kumar’s remarks highlight the EC’s dedication to ensuring the integrity of the electoral process in India.

Regarding voter turnout, Kumar commended the participation across generations and emphasized the significance of voting for every citizen. Sharing his personal experience of voting alongside his 95-year-old father, wife, and daughter, he stated, “When I cast my vote for the first time, I went with my father, and today I have brought my father with me who is now 95 years old. He voted with me today, and my wife and daughter are also with me. So, three generations have cast their votes together today.”

Meanwhile, voting is underway for a total of 58 constituencies across six states and two union territories in the sixth phase of Lok Sabha polls, with over 11.13 crore voters exercising their franchise to decide the fate of 889 candidates. This phase includes constituencies from Bihar, Haryana, Jammu and Kashmir, Jharkhand, Delhi, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal, with 42 assembly constituencies in Odisha also going to polls simultaneously.

EC orders clear identification on election material for transparency

April 10, 2024, 7:32 pm

The Election Commission (EC) on Wednesday instructed the clear identification of the printer and publisher on printed election-related material, such as hoardings, aiming to enhance accountability and transparency in election campaigning. The electoral body stated that this decision was made in response to representations indicating that hoardings lacking the identity of the printer or publisher have been observed in hoarding spaces managed by municipal authorities.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) had recently raised the issue with the EC as well.

The EC referred to section 127A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, which forbids the printing or publishing of election pamphlets, posters, placards, or banners without prominently displaying the name and address of the printer and publisher.

Emphasizing its significance, the requirement of disclosing the identity of publishers serves as a cornerstone for regulating campaign financing and assigning responsibility in the event that content is deemed inconsistent with the framework of the Model Code of Conduct or statutory provisions, it underscored.

Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar recently emphasized addressing the issue of misinformation as one of the challenges, alongside money and muscle power, for ensuring a level-playing field. Kumar had also recited a couplet to underscore the importance of curbing misinformation. He described misinformation as a “bubble” which “bursts” when touched.

“With this directive, the Commission now has put the accountability on printers, publishers, licensees/contractors of urban local bodies renting out outdoor advertising space for political advertisements published on outdoor media,” it said.

J&K Assembly Elections to Follow SC Directive :BJP’s Tarun Chugh

March 17, 2024, 4:41 pm

On Sunday, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) general secretary Tarun Chugh stated that the Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir will take place as per the directives of the Supreme Court.

“Everybody has faith in the Election Commission. According to the Supreme Court’s direction, the elections will happen in Jammu and Kashmir in September,” he said.

Earlier today, Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal remarked that it was surprising yet anticipated.

“Shocking, but that is expected. They will have no polls in J&K, and what is even more shocking is that Sonam Wangchuk, who is on fast, wants to have ‘district hill status’ and they are not even providing that,” he said.

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar announced on Saturday that the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly polls would take place following the Lok Sabha elections.

In an interview with ANI, CEC Kumar said, “We are yet to hold assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. I mentioned in the press conference earlier today that the way for conducting legal elections has opened since December 23. This is March, and there is snowfall in the region, hence the question of holding elections does not arise at this point.”

“We (ECI) went to Jammu and Kashmir and were asked by all the political parties there to hold the state assembly elections with the Lok Sabha polls. After that, we held administrative meetings wherein it was discussed that a lot of security forces would be required to conduct state assembly election with Lok Sabha election in J-K,” he said.

Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar revealed on Saturday that the general election for 543 Lok Sabha seats would occur in seven phases, commencing from April 19. The counting is scheduled for June 4.

With the announcement of dates, nearly 97 crore voters will have the eligibility to cast their votes for 543 Lok Sabha constituencies across the nation. Consequently, the moral code of conduct comes into effect immediately.

Odisha Electoral Chief Nikunja Bihari Dhal Assesses Poll Preparations

March 17, 2024, 2:56 pm

Following the announcement of the Lok Sabha Elections schedule by the Election Commission of India, Odisha’s Chief Electoral Officer Nikunja Bihari Dhal stated that while an evaluation of sensitive and vulnerable polling stations has been completed, the ultimate assessment will occur only after the candidates are confirmed.

As per the schedule unveiled by the Election Commission, Lok Sabha elections in Odisha are slated to occur across four phases on May 13, May 20, May 25, and June 1.

“As per the schedule, the elections to the Lok Sabha and Odisha Legislative Assembly will be conducted simultaneously on four dates: 13th May, 20th May, 25th May, and 1st June… The sensitive and vulnerable booths’ primary assessment has been done, but the final assessment will be done after the candidates are finalised… Conducting polls in the later part of May will be a challenge for us because May is the cyclone month for Odisha… We have tasked cyber police to keep a close watch on fake news,” said the Chief Electoral Officer of Odisha, Nikunja Bihari Dhal.

The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) was enforced on Saturday subsequent to the Election Commission of India unveiling the dates for elections to the Lok Sabha and four state assemblies. Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar urged all political parties and their leaders to strictly adhere to the poll code.

As the term of the 17th Lok Sabha is set to conclude on June 16, 2024, elections for its 543 seats must be conducted before then. The general election for these 543 Lok Sabha seats will take place in seven phases starting from April 19, with the counting scheduled for June 4. Elections to the State legislatures of Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Odisha, and Sikkim will also occur during this period.

Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar announced that voting will take place in 7 phases commencing from April 19.

In Phase 1, scheduled for April 19, voting will occur in a total of 102 constituencies. The second phase of Lok Sabha polls, set for April 26, will witness voting on 89 constituencies. The third phase of General elections is slated for May 7, with a total of 94 constituencies conducting voting in this phase.

Phase 4 will encompass polling for 96 Lok Sabha seats on May 13. Phase 5, scheduled for May 20, will witness polling on 49 Lok Sabha seats. The sixth phase, set for May 25, will see polling on 57 constituencies. Finally, the seventh and final phase of Lok Sabha elections will be held on June 1, with polling taking place on 57 constituencies.

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar announced that a total of 96.8 crore voters will be eligible to cast their vote in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Dates Announced, All Phases Explained

March 16, 2024, 5:29 pm

The Election Commission of India has announced dates for the 2024 Lok Sabha election. The Election Commission of India held a press conference to reveal the dates. Lok Sabha Elections 2024 will be held in 7 phases beginning on April 19 and ending on June 4. A total of 543 Principal Constituencies will be set up throughout the elections. CEC Rajiv Kumar arrived at the press conference with Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu at 3 pm. On June 16, the current administration will come to an end.

Phase 1 will initiate the Lok Sabha Elections 2024 on April 19 and will constitute 21 states and union territories namely, Tamil Nadu, Sikkim, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Tripura, Manipur, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Jammu & Kashmir, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Assam, West Bengal, Andaman Nicobar, Lakshadweep, Puducherry.

There will be a total of 102 principal constituencies in Phase 1 of the Lok Sabha Elections.

Here is a detailed list of PCs state-wise in Phase 1:

Tamil Nadu: 39
Sikkim: 1
Meghalaya: 2
Mizoram: 1
Arunachal Pradesh: 2
Nagaland: 1
Tripura: 1
Manipur: 2
Madhya Pradesh: 6
Maharashtra: 5
Chhattisgarh: 1
Uttarakhand: 5
Rajasthan: 5
Jammu & Kashmir: 1
Uttar Pradesh: 8
Bihar: 4
Assam: 5
West Bengal: 3
Andaman and Nicobar : 1
Lakshadweep: 1
Puducherry: 1

Phase 2 will initiate the Lok Sabha Elections 2024 on April 26 and will constitute 13 states and union territories namely, Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Rajasthan, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Jammu & Kashmir.

There will be a total of 89 principal constituencies in Phase 2 of the Lok Sabha Elections.

Here is a detailed list of PCs state-wise in Phase 2:

Assam: 5
Bihar: 5
Chhattisgarh: 3
Karnataka: 14
Kerala: 20
Madhya Pradesh: 7
Maharashtra: 8
Manipur: 1
Rajasthan: 13
Tripura: 1
Uttar Pradesh: 8
West Bengal: 3
Jammu & Kashmir: 1

Phase 3 will initiate the Lok Sabha Elections 2024 on May 7 and will constitute 12 states and union territories namely, Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujrat, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Dadar and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu , Jammu & Kashmir.

There will be a total of 94 principal constituencies in Phase 3 of the Lok Sabha Elections.

Here is a detailed list of PCs state-wise in Phase 3:

Assam: 4
Bihar: 5
Chhattisgarh: 7
Goa:2
Gujrat: 26
Karnataka: 14
Madhya Pradesh: 8
Maharashtra: 11
Uttar Pradesh: 10
West Bengal: 4
Dadar and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu: 2
Jammu & Kashmir: 1

Phase 4 of the Lok Sabha Elections 2024 will start on May 13 and will constitute 10 states and union territories namely Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Jammu and Kashmir.

There will be a total of 96 principal constituencies in Phase 4 of the Lok Sabha Elections.

Here is a detailed list of PCs state-wise in Phase 4:

Andhra Pradesh – 25
Bihar – 5
Jharkhand – 4
Madhya Pradesh – 8
Maharashtra – 11
Odisha – 4
Telangana – 17
Uttar Pradesh – 13
West Bengal – 8
Jammu and Kashmir – 1

Phase 5 of the Lok Sabha Elections 2024 will start on May 20 and will constitute 8 states and union territories namely Bihar, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.

There will be a total of 49 principal constituencies in Phase 5 of the Lok Sabha Elections.

Here is a detailed list of PCs state-wise in Phase 5:

Bihar – 5
Jharkhand – 3
Maharashtra – 13
Odisha – 5
Uttar Pradesh – 14
West Bengal – 7
Jammu and Kashmir – 1
Ladakh – 1

Phase 6 of the Lok Sabha Elections 2024 will start on May 25 and will constitute 7 states and union territories namely Bihar, Haryana, Jharkhand, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and the National Capital Territory of Delhi.

There will be a total of 57 principal constituencies in Phase 6 of the Lok Sabha Elections.

Here is a detailed list of PCs state-wise in Phase 6:

Bihar – 8
Haryana – 10
Jharkhand – 4
Odisha – 6
Uttar Pradesh – 14
West Bengal – 8
National Capital Territory of Delhi – 7

Phase 7 of the Lok Sabha Elections 2024 will start on June 1 and will constitute 8 states and union territories namely Bihar, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Chandigarh.

There will be a total of 57 principal constituencies in Phase 6 of the Lok Sabha Elections.

Here is a detailed list of PCs state-wise in Phase 7:

Bihar – 8
Himachal Pradesh – 4
Jharkhand – 3
Odisha – 6
Punjab – 13
Uttar Pradesh – 13
West Bengal – 9
Chandigarh – 1