ECI finalises arrangements

New Delhi, May 6: The Election Commission of India (ECI) is all set to ensure maximum arrangements at polling stations across 93 constituencies in 11 states and union territories in the third phase of Lok Sabha Polls on Tuesday.

Weather forecasts predict normal conditions, but amenities like water, shade, and fans are in place to make voting hassle-free.

Emergency medical services are at the ready, with fixed-wing air ambulances and Pawan Hans helicopters on standby in Raipur.

The ECI is urging voters to turn out in large numbers and cast their votes responsibly.

In a bid to boost participation, the ECI has joined forces with major telecom giants like Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd., Bharti Airtel Limited, Jio Telecommunication, and Vodafone-Idea Ltd. Messages and calls featuring national and state icons are being sent to encourage voter engagement.

Transparency is paramount for the ECI. Voter turnout is recorded at each polling station in Form 17C, and copies are shared with polling agents for verification. This ensures candidates have access to real-time data on votes cast, fulfilling statutory requirements.

For media and stakeholders, turnout figures are available through the ECI Voter Turnout app, offering live updates every two hours till 7 pm.

After polling closes, data continues to be updated as polling parties return and deposit materials in strong rooms.

A new feature on the Voter Turnout app provides phase-wise aggregated turnout data for easier access by media and stakeholders.

Meanwhile, polling in 93 constituencies is set to unfold across 11 states and UTs.

Notably, polling for Anantnag-Rajouri parliamentary constituency in Jammu and Kashmir has been rescheduled to the sixth phase, and Surat parliamentary constituency won't see polling due to an uncontested victory.

However, Betul parliamentary constituency will participate following a rescheduled date due to unfortunate circumstances.

International interest in India's polling process remains high, with 75 delegates from 23 countries observing polling stations in six states as part of the International Election Visitor Programme.

Polling parties have been dispatched with EVMs and materials, with unique efforts like Sashastra Seema Bal troops deployed on boats in Assam's South Salmara Mankachar PC and polling personnel navigating the river Kosi on boats in Bihar's Supaul.