Gujarat, West Bengal witness lower voter turnout as compared to 2019

Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Karnataka and Telangana recorded lower voter turnout percentage on some seats.

Gujarat and West Bengal saw lower percentage of voter turnout in all its seats barring one each, in the five phases of 2024 Lok Sabha elections conducted as compared to the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the Election Commission data showed.

In Bihar, 21 constituencies saw drop in percentage of voter turnout, but in absolute numbers only one constituency witnessed lower polling.
In Maharashtra, 20 seats saw lower voter turnout percentage while six constituencies witnessed lower number of people voting in absolute numbers as compared to 2019, a TOI report said.

When compared to 2019, six constituencies saw lower voter turnout in absolute numbers in the five phases of 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Of these, five seats are in Maharashtra, including Pune and Mumbai South.

Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Karnataka and Telangana recorded lower voter turnout percentage on some seats.

Chhattisgarh was the only state which saw higher voting percentage and voter turnout in absolute numbers in every seat as compared to 2019.

When discussing the absolute number of voters in Lok Sabha elections, it is important to note that while the overall voter turnout percentage may have increased, specific constituencies have seen a decrease in the absolute number of voters due to various factors.

In areas with high migration rates, both inwards and outwards, the voter base can fluctuate significantly. This can lead to a lower absolute number of voters in certain constituencies. Disillusionment with political candidates or parties can also lead to a drop in voter turnout in absolute terms.

Frequent elections at different levels (national, state, and local) may lead to voter fatigue. The staggered election schedule can result in decreased enthusiasm and participation over time.

While India has a large youth population, young voters (18-25 years) often exhibit lower turnout rates. Reasons include disillusionment with politics, lack of awareness, and the perception that their vote does not make a difference.

Lack of civic education and awareness about the importance of voting is a critical factor. Efforts to increase voter awareness and education through campaigns, both by the Election Commission and civil society organisations, aim to address this issue. Addressing low voter turnout in India requires a multifaceted approach, including improving voter education, enhancing the voting process, and fostering greater civic engagement among all demographic groups.