'Dictatorship Or Democracy?' Opposition Leaders' Appeal To Voters In Phase 1 Lok Sabha Polls

Opposition leaders from the Congress have urged electors to vote for justice and "save democracy" as the fate of 1,625 candidates hangs in the balance.

The Opposition on Friday urged the voters to come out in large numbers and vote to "protect the Constitution of India and democracy". The Congress highlighted its five nyay or "justice" mentioned in its manifesto.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge said: "The fight to protect our Constitution and Democracy begins today... A future where NYAY (JUSTICE) awaits you. A new era of Economic Empowerment and Equal Opportunities beckons you."

He also encouraged first-time voters to exercise their right to franchise in large numbers. 

Kharge , in an X post, said people would vote for the guarantees Yuva Nyay, Naari Nyay, Kisaan Nyay, Shramik Nyay, and Hissedari Nyay. "When you push that button on the EVM, pause and reflect for a second — Do you want our Institutions to be subverted through dictatorship, or do you want to protect DEMOCRACY? YOU are now the decider of India’s destiny," he said.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said: "Remember, each of your votes is going to decide the future of Indian democracy and the coming generations." Rahul Gandhi is contesting the Wayanad seat in Kerala, which will go to polls in Phase 2 on April 26.

Another I.N.D.I.A leader Akhilesh Yadav said: "Be sure to vote for your bright future." Akhilesh is likely to fight the Lok Sabha polls from Kannauj, Uttar Pradesh. The seat will go to polls in the fourth phase on May 13.

Opposition leader Mayawati urged the Election Commission to "ensure free and fair elections and provide full support to the poor, the oppressed, and women in voting".

Lok Sabha Polls Phase 1 Key Facts

As many as 16.63 crore voters are eligible to cast their ballots across 1.87 lakh polling stations on Friday. Among them, 8.4 crore voters are men, 8.23 crore are women and 11,371 are registered as third-gender electors. More than 18 lakh polling officials are involved in conducting the biggest elections in the history of the world.

As many as 35.67 lakh first-time electors have registered themselves to cast votes. A total of 1,625 candidates are in the fray for the first phase of polling.