MONDAY, MAY 20, 2024
Team Herald
The Lok Sabha election on Tuesday witnessed a 75.20 percent voter turnout across both Lok Sabha seats in the state of Goa. The electoral fervor was particularly notable in North Goa, where polling reached 76.54 percent, and in South Goa, where it stood at 73.90 percent.
Breaking down the figures further, certain constituencies emerged as the vanguards of voter engagement. In North Goa, areas such as Poriem, Sanquelim, Valpoi, and Bicholim witnessed the highest turnout, boasting impressive figures of 87.11 percent, 86.5 percent, 82.97 percent, and 82 percent respectively. Meanwhile, in South Goa, Saguim, Savordem, Canacona, and Quepem stood out with significant turnouts of 82.22 percent, 79.98 percent, 78.52 percent, and 78 percent respectively.
The substantial turnout speaks volumes about the electorate's commitment to exercising their franchise. Out of the 11,79,644 registered voters in the state, approximately 25 percent, totaling to 2.96 lakh voters, cast their ballots. These votes now seal the fate of sixteen candidates contesting from both constituencies, their destinies locked within the electronic voting machines (EVMs), with the results slated for announcement on June 4.
Among the prominent candidates in the fray are Shripad Naik of BJP from North Goa, Congress's Adv. Ramakant Khalap, Manoj Parab of Revolutionary Goans (RGP), and several others vying for electoral success. However, the outcome remains uncertain until the final tally is revealed.
Amidst the electoral buzz, voting proceeded smoothly at all polling stations, ensuring a peaceful and orderly democratic exercise. Recognizing the challenges posed by rising temperatures, the Election Commission took proactive measures by providing coolers, soft drinks, and cold water at polling stations. Moreover, special arrangements were made to cater to the medical needs of elderly and differently-abled voters, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility.
Noteworthy was the exceptional turnout at remote and challenging locations, symbolizing the unwavering commitment to democracy. Saljini Polling Station No. 43, nestled in the hilly terrain of Netrawali Gram Panchayat, witnessed a remarkable 100 percent voter turnout, echoing the spirit of democratic participation. Similarly, polling station number 45 in Mangal-Kaware Pirla also recorded a perfect turnout.
