Campaigning ends for 3rd phase of LS elections across 11 states

The intense campaigning for the Lok Sabha elections’ third phase concluded on Sunday, marking the end of a heated contest between the NDA, led by the BJP, and the INDIA bloc.

The campaign was characterised by intense debates over reservations and allegations of sexual misconduct against JD(S) leader Prajwal Revanna. The phase encompasses 92 constituencies across 11 states and Union Territories.

The BJP, which secured a dominant victory in these constituencies in 2019, including complete sweeps in Gujarat, Chhattisgarh, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh, is looking to replicate its success in the upcoming polls on May 7.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spearheaded the BJP’s campaign, challenging the Congress to affirm in writing their commitment to not allocate quotas meant for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes to Muslims.

In response, the Congress and its allies accused the BJP of attempting to undermine the Constitution and eliminate reservations. The Congress, which has vowed to lift the 50 per cent cap on reservations, pressed the BJP to clarify their position on the matter.

Congress leaders, including party chief Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, concentrated their efforts on social justice, unemployment, perceived injustices to farmers, and alleged preferential treatment towards certain businessmen.