Election Commission to reveal Lok Sabha Elections dates today

The Election Commission of India is set to announce the dates for the Lok Sabha elections of 2024, along with Assembly election dates for certain states, as confirmed by a spokesperson from the poll body on Friday. The eagerly awaited announcement will be made during a press conference scheduled for Saturday at 3 pm.

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Details of the Announcement

A spokesperson from the Election Commission stated on X platform, "Press Conference by Election Commission to announce the schedule for #GeneralElections2024 and some State Assemblies will be held at 3 pm tomorrow ie Saturday, 16th March. It will be live-streamed on social media platforms of the ECI."

In the previous 2019 elections, the Lok Sabha polls were conducted in seven phases spanning from April 11 to May 19, with the results declared on May 23.

Recap of the 2019 Elections

In the 2019 polls, the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) secured a total of 303 seats, while the opposition party managed 52 seats, indicating a significant victory for the ruling coalition. This history provides context for the anticipation surrounding the upcoming announcement.

Discussion on Jammu and Kashmir Elections

Earlier this week, Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar mentioned that the Election Commission will make a decision regarding the simultaneous conduct of Lok Sabha Elections and Assembly Elections in Jammu and Kashmir, taking into account the prevailing security situation.

Preparation and Announcements by Political Parties

As the election season gears up, political parties have already begun revealing their candidates for the general elections. Both the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Indian National Congress (Congress) have released two lists of candidates each for the upcoming polls.

Insights on Electoral Bonds and Donations

Additionally, on March 14, the Election Commission shared data on electoral bonds on its official website, sourced from the State Bank of India (SBI). Notably, Future Gaming and Hotel Services and Megha Engineering and Infrastructures Ltd were among the top contributors to political parties.

Challenges and Petitions

There have been legal challenges mounted against amendments made to various statutes through the Finance Act of 2017 and 2016, alleging that they have led to unregulated funding for political parties, opening doors to potential issues of transparency and accountability.

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