Indian Elections 2024

Once every 5 years India awakens to a new set of change in guard at the legislative level, by means of elections. The fate of the country, the destiny all revolves round the people who would perhaps exercise their franchisee to elect a new government.  India is the worlds most populous democracy and approximately 969 million people casting their vote amongst 2600 parties to elect a new federal Government after June 2024 is underway.

What makes these elections unique?

For starters, the country is so huge, and therefore, requiring tremendous man power, polling stations logistical arrangements for both the poll staff and the electorate and most importantly to be conducted in a free and fair manner. In order to do that the election dates have been spread geographically into different parts of India, on 6 different poll dates. This is being done so that the whole of India is covered in phases.  Just to give an idea, it is like the entire continent of Europe going to polls to elect a Government. Such mind blowing exercise is simply unthinkable in the West, as perhaps the wherewithal to hold gigantic elections simply doesn’t exist!  Secondly the leaders have to reach out to the general public seeking votes. It is perhaps the only time a concerted effort is made by politicians to make amends with the public at large and seek their “favour”, and thus increase the vote bank. Thirdly, on the polling day, it will be amusing to see the vicinity of the polling stations, as if some carnival is in progress, thus presenting with a festive look.

What does the election hold for an INBOUND tourist?

The those interested in Indian polity, which has now become a case study, even in many reputed Universities, and shown as a  role model for implementing democratic principles, the Indian election are a good example of how fair and free elections are conducted. Inbound tourist can associate with the event witnessing it from very close quarters. It will be an insight for a traveller to get a feel as an independent observer, as to how elections are conducted in India.

How can domestic tourist see the opportunity?

Well, the domestic populace are reasonably aware of the political situation in the country. The young vibrant voter may not have a Voter card in the place where he/she ordinarily work.  They would thus, have to proceed to their home town to cast their vote.  This gives them opportunities to move from one place to another and a very discerning voter can convert this experience into a quick summer vacation too.

Is it safe to undertake journeys during election time?

The short answer to this query is - of course it is. In fact, from a tourist perspective nothing changes physically at the ground level.  It gives the tourist to witness colourful banners, with placards and mobile advertisement vehicles blaring candidates profile moving all around a limited geographical sphere to attract voters. For an observer, as a tourist it is a very novel experience. 

Elections in India are planned during the Indian summer months only. This is largely done, keeping in mind available infrastructure in every state. Indian schools and colleges have a vacation break during the summers and it becomes easy for the election Commission of India to organise, plan, execute a free and fair elections and ensure the formation of the federal Government for the next 5 years.  This is ritual that is followed by India, for the world to take note off.