Punjab has recorded its lowest voter turnout in the Lok Sabha elections since 2009. As per the Election Commission of India, the state’s voter turnout stood at 61.32 percent as of midnight, a figure that, while subject to final adjustments, is anticipated to remain below the 65.94 percent turnout recorded in the 2019 elections.
Sibin C, the Chief Electoral Officer of Punjab, confirmed to The Tribune that the voter turnout is unlikely to surpass the last election’s figures, even as the final data is still being compiled.
The reduced voter participation, attributed partly to the ongoing heatwave, could signify a maintenance of the current political landscape in Punjab.
Political analyst Dr. Parmod Kumar pointed out that several constituencies, including Bathinda, Sangrur, and Khadoor Sahib, witnessed intense electoral battles. However, the stagnant voter turnout implies that the electorate may not be seeking significant changes in their representation. “While there is some anti-incumbency sentiment, it has not been strong enough to significantly influence voter turnout,” he noted.
As the final results are awaited, Punjab’s low voter turnout raises questions about the electorate’s engagement and satisfaction with the current political scenario.
