As India gears up for the commencement of vote counting for the seven-phase Lok Sabha Elections 2024 today, June 3rd, a nationwide ban on the sale of liquor has been implemented to maintain the integrity of the vote-counting process. This prohibition on alcohol sales will remain in effect from 12 a.m. on June 3rd to 12 a.m. on June 4th, encompassing all shops, bars, hotels, restaurants, and taverns throughout the country. However, restaurants and hotels are authorized to serve food and non-alcoholic beverages. This dry day measure is a standard practice during election-related activities to prevent any potential influence on the vote-counting process.
The vote-counting process will officially commence at 8 a.m. today, with the counting of postal ballots taking precedence, followed by the tabulation of votes cast through electronic voting machines (EVMs). The Election Commission of India (ECI) has made elaborate arrangements to ensure the smooth and transparent counting of votes. Exit polls conducted by various agencies have projected a promising performance for the ruling BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA), indicating a possible improvement over their 2019 tally of 352 seats. The results of the Lok Sabha Elections 2024 will have a significant impact on the political landscape of India and will shape the direction of the country for the next five years.
