Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Saturday urged the public to vote against the politics of hatred, rhetoric, and distraction as the sixth phase of elections commenced. In a post on X, Kharge emphasized the importance of this voting phase in the fight to secure democracy and the Constitution.
“My dear countrymen, this struggle to secure democracy and the Constitution has reached its last two stages. Today is the sixth phase of voting and you have to vote,” he stated.
Kharge encouraged voters to choose unity, justice, and significant issues over divisive politics. “Vote against the politics of hatred, rhetoric, and distraction. Think twice before pressing the voting button on the EVM,” he urged.
As the Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha, Kharge reminded voters of their power to combat dictatorship through democracy. “Remember, today is the day when you will be able to defeat dictatorship with the power of democracy. If not now, then never,” he said.
Reflecting on the previous five phases of the Lok Sabha elections, Kharge noted that dictatorial forces had suffered setbacks, highlighting the strength of the democratic vote. “In the last five phases, dictatorial forces suffered a major setback, and voices of panic are at their peak. This is the power of your vote.”
He also appealed to first-time voters to participate actively. “In the first five phases of voting, you have rejected lies, hatred, and propaganda and given priority to grassroots issues related to your life. Come out of your homes in large numbers and vote for your rights and the future of your family,” he said.
Rahul Gandhi, another prominent Congress leader, echoed this sentiment on X after casting his vote, urging citizens to prioritize their rights and family futures in their voting decisions.
Voting for the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha elections began at 7 am on Saturday across 58 constituencies in eight states and Union Territories (UTs), under tight security measures. According to the Election Commission of India’s voter turnout app, over 10 percent turnout was recorded by 9 am, with Delhi registering an 8.94 percent turnout.
