The world’s largest and the country’s intensely contested over month long Lok Sabha elections came to a close this evening. The nine phases of Lok Sabha polling, which began on 7th April, registered highest ever voter turnout of 66.38 percent in all 543 constituencies.
The massive turn out has beaten previous record of over 64 percent polling in 1984 General elections. The last Lok elections had recorded 58.19 percent in 2009.
Briefing reporters in New Delhi this evening Director General, Election Commission Akshay Rout said, 15 States and Union Territories witnessed highest women voter turn out. He said, in eight States and Union Territories including Odisha, Punjab, Goa and Chandigarh, the women voters out numbered the males. He said, in all States and Union Territories Lakshadweep reported highest voting of 86.79 percent in this elections.
Meanwhile, the last phase of polling in 41 Lok Sabha constituencies spread over three states also witnessed a heavy voter turnout today. 17 seats in West Bengal witnessed over 79 percent polling. While 18 seats in Uttar Pradesh registered 55.29 per cent turnout.
Addressing a press conference in New Delhi on Monday evening, Election Commission officials said, 6 seats in Bihar recorded 54 percent voting. Polling was by and large peaceful in all areas barring some stray incidents of violence in West Bengal.