The Congress party has characterised the upcoming Lok Sabha election 2024 as a crucial fight between dictatorship and constitution, emphasising the significance of democracy and justice. The party's remarks came as Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar announced on Saturday that the Lok Sabha polls, the world's largest election exercise, will be conducted in seven phases.
The first phase is scheduled for April 19, followed by subsequent phases on April 26, May 7, May 13, May 20, May 25, and June 1. The counting of votes will take place on June 4. This election will witness Prime Minister Narendra Modi vying for a third consecutive term.
Addressing a press conference, Congress leader Pawan Khera articulated the party's stance, stating, "Today, the Election Commission has announced the general elections, but this election is not 'general'. In this election, the decision will be made whether this country and our democracy will be carried on the shoulders of the labourers, farmers, and the middle class, or on the shoulders of selected capitalists. This will determine whether the country will march on the path of Baba Saheb's Constitution or on the praises of a dictator."
Expressing reservations about the seven-phase election schedule, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge remarked, "Seven (phases) means nearly all development work will be stopped and stopping for nearly 70-80 days means you can imagine how the country will progress because as per the election code of conduct, people will not move, the material will not be supplied, budget will not be spent, so this, according to me, is not good."
Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury highlighted the importance of fair and violence-free elections, stating, "We have been saying since starting that everyone should get equal rights, we demand this only... Also, it would have been a good thing if elections (Assembly) had been announced in J&K also, why are we waiting till September?"
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor emphasised the significance of the election in determining India's future, contrasting the BJP's vision with the Congress', which advocates diversity and pluralism.
NCP(SP) Criticises Maharashtra's Five-Phase Lok Sabha Polls
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut welcomed the election schedule, affirming the readiness of the Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance. He stated, "We only want the Election Commission to ensure free and fair polls."
However, there was criticism regarding Maharashtra's five-phase election schedule. Clyde Crasto, national spokesperson of NCP(SP), questioned the rationale behind the decision, expressing concerns about potential fears or issues related to Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).
"Five phases in Maharashtra. What is the BJP trying to so? Is this fear or EVM. Maharashtra has 48 Lok Sabha seats, the highest after Uttar Pradesh's 80." he posted on X.