Prime Minister Narendra Modi urges citizens, especially youth and first-time voters, to participate vigorously as the first phase of Lok Sabha polls commences across 102 seats in 21 states and UTs. Over 16.63 crore eligible voters, including 35.67 lakh first-timers and 3.51 crore youth, have the opportunity to cast their ballots. Simultaneously, assembly elections are underway in Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim. With BJP-NDA seeking a third term and the opposition forming the INDIA alliance, the elections mark a significant moment in India's democratic process. Voting is crucial as every voice matters, emphasizes PM Modi.

The first phase of the 2024 Lok Sabha election kicked off today with voters casting their ballots across 21 states and Union Territories. A total of 102 constituencies are participating in this initial phase of polling. The election, spanning seven phases, will conclude on June 1, with results announced on June 4. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's NDA alliance seeks a third consecutive term, while the opposition INDIA bloc promises farmer support and women's welfare. The electoral process unfolds amidst heightened political fervor and anticipation across the nation.            

The Aam Aadmi Party accuses authorities of denying insulin to Arvind Kejriwal, claiming a conspiracy against him. Atishi alleges a plot to harm Kejriwal's health in Tihar jail. ED accused of lying about Kejriwal's diet to deny medical bail. Kejriwal's blood sugar levels fluctuate, needing insulin. AAP fears homemade food delivery stoppage. Kejriwal arrested by ED in March in Delhi liquor policy case.

The Enforcement Directorate claims Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, diabetic and in Tihar Jail, consumes mangoes and sweets to spike blood sugar for medical bail. The court seeks reports on his diet amid plea for doctor consultation. Kejriwal's lawyer challenges allegations, citing media manipulation. ED insists Kejriwal's sugar levels spiked since jail admission. Court requests diet details for comparison, adjourns hearing to Friday. Kejriwal's health and legal battle intensifies amidst ongoing controversy.

The Uttar Pradesh government has secured air ambulances and helicopters from a Gurugram-based aviation company to aid in emergencies during the Lok Sabha elections. These aircraft will be stationed strategically across the state during each phase of polling, with helicopters serving multiple districts. Apart from medical aid, they will facilitate swift transportation of security forces when needed. The lease agreement, costing ₹5.60 lakh for two hours daily, amounts to a total expenditure of ₹39.20 lakh, approved by the state government. This initiative aims to ensure immediate assistance across all regions during critical situations.

A poll of opinion polls indicates the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) could secure 365 seats in the upcoming Lok Sabha Elections 2024, a slight increase from 2019. The Opposition's INDIA bloc is projected to win 122 seats, marking a 35% rise from the previous election. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's BJP is anticipated to maintain dominance in the Hindi Heartland and secure victories in eight states and Union Territories. Close contests are predicted in West Bengal and Maharashtra. Voting commences on April 19, with results expected on June 4.            

The Election Commission has urged West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose to cancel his scheduled visit to Cooch Behar on April 18-19, coinciding with the constituency's voting day. Violating the Model Code of Conduct, the visit during the 48-hour silence period before polls would impede election management, stated the commission. With Lok Sabha elections spanning April to June, the first phase on April 19 initiates a seven-phase process. The commission emphasized that local programs for the governor are prohibited under the MCC during this crucial period.

The BJP-led central government lauded former PM PV Narasimha Rao and Finance Minister Manmohan Singh for their pivotal roles in economic liberalisation during a Supreme Court hearing. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta highlighted their reforms' impact, acknowledging their significance in ending the 'licence raj' era. However, Mehta also noted the lack of subsequent amendments to the Industry (Development and Regulation) Act, 1951. He clarified that while the government relinquished control over industries, it retained regulatory authority, crucial during emergencies like the Covid-19 pandemic, to ensure public interest and response efficiency.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee cautioned of potential riots orchestrated by the BJP during Ram Navami, citing last year's violent clashes. Alleging a strategy to secure electoral victories through rioting and vote looting, Banerjee urged for peace during celebrations. The BJP condemned her remarks, accusing her of disrespecting Indian culture. Amidst the political spat, both parties conducted Ram Navami processions across the state, with heightened police presence to ensure calm. Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused the Trinamool Congress of obstructing festivities, referencing a court ruling permitting processions with conditions. 

Delhi's AAP MP Sanjay Singh revealed that jailed Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal sent a message asserting, "I am not a terrorist." Allegations surfaced of Kejriwal being treated unfairly, akin to a terrorist, during his time in Tihar Jail. Singh condemned what he labeled as "vendetta politics" against Kejriwal, currently held in the Delhi excise policy case. Kejriwal's confinement includes restricted access to family, sparking further criticism. Singh, who recently left Tihar after six months in the same case, emphasized Kejriwal's dedication to serving Delhi and India.