In the upcoming third phase of Lok Sabha elections, over 11 lakh eligible voters are poised to cast their votes for two Lok Sabha seats in Goa, setting the stage for a direct contest between the Congress and the BJP.
The coastal state is divided into two parliamentary constituencies—North Goa and South Goa. District collector Sneha Gitte assured that all necessary arrangements are in place at polling stations, urging voters to participate between 7 am and 6 pm as per Election Commission guidelines. In anticipation of the hot weather, provisions for refreshments and water have been made at polling booths.
In North Goa, incumbent MP Shripad Naik of the BJP will face off against Congress candidate Ramakant Khalap, while in South Goa, the BJP's candidate, entrepreneur Pallavi Dempo, will contest against Congress' Viriato Fernandes, a Navy-veteran-turned-politician. The current MP for South Goa is Congress' Francisco Sardinha.
A total of 16 candidates—eight in each constituency—are vying for the Lok Sabha seats. According to data from the office of Goa's Chief Electoral Officer, the state boasts 11,79,644 voters, with 5,80,710 in North Goa and 5,98,934 in South Goa, as of April 19. The electorate comprises 5,71,617 men, 6,07,715 women, and 12 transgender individuals, with 300 service voters included.
The election campaign witnessed rallies by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah for the BJP, while the Congress deployed senior leaders Shashi Tharoor and Pawan Khera for its campaign in Goa.
A total of 1,725 polling stations have been established across the state, including 863 in North Goa and 862 in South Goa. To expedite the voting process and reduce wait times, 43 model polling booths in North Goa and 45 in South Goa have been identified. Additionally, medical camps will be available at eight model polling stations in urban areas to cater to elderly voters' health needs.
To promote gender equality and empower women voters, 40 dedicated polling stations, or 'pink booths,' managed exclusively by women personnel, have been established in both districts. Moreover, to prioritize environmental sustainability, 40 'green' polling stations have been set up, adorned with eco-friendly decorations sourced from local vendors.
In a nod to inclusivity, 'Divyang' polling stations—five in North Goa and three in South Goa—have been designated to ensure accessibility for voters with disabilities. These measures collectively reflect a commitment to facilitating a smooth and inclusive electoral process in Goa.
