The Aryavarth Express
Agency(New Delhi): The intense campaigning period for the second phase of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections concluded on Wednesday evening. The campaign saw fervent efforts from the BJP-led NDA and the opposition INDIA bloc as they made their final appeals to voters. This phase of the election, scheduled for April 26, will involve 89 constituencies across 13 states and Union Territories, including the latter stages of the Outer Manipur Lok Sabha constituency.
With the campaigning wrapped up, a 48-hour silence period has begun ahead of the polling. The deadline for candidate nominations was April 4, highlighting a competitive field with Kerala and Karnataka leading in the number of nominations.
This election phase follows the first phase which covered 102 constituencies across 21 states and UTs, encompassing ten states and UTs entirely and partaking in eleven others. The campaigns have been notably vigorous, with the BJP centering its message around “Modi Ki Guarantee,” promising advancements in youth development, women’s empowerment, and support for farmers and underprivileged communities. On the other hand, the Congress party has focused on its ‘Nyay’ guarantees, which pledge justice for various societal groups.
Controversies have not been absent from the campaigning rhetoric, with the BJP criticizing the INDIA bloc for corruption, dynasty politics, and other contentious issues, while the opposition has countered by highlighting concerns over electoral bonds, the alleged misuse of government agencies, and pressing issues like inflation and unemployment.
Prominent political figures including Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi have all actively participated in campaigning. Notable constituencies such as Wayanad and Thiruvananthapuram are set for significant contests, featuring high-profile candidates like Rahul Gandhi and Shashi Tharoor, respectively.