Women Lead the Way in Himachal Panchayat Polls

In the first phase of Himachal Pradesh panchayat elections, over 44% of eligible voters cast their ballots by 1 pm, with women voters leading significantly. The highest participation was recorded in Solan at 51.12%, while the least was in Chamba at 37.67%. Elections were peaceful except for a minor issue in Mandi district.

Over 44% of eligible voters turned out in the first phase of the Himachal Pradesh panchayat elections by 1 pm, with women voters significantly outnumbering men across all districts, according to officials.

The elections, encompassing 1,293 panchayats, commenced at 7 am under a yellow alert for heatwave conditions affecting multiple districts, including Una, Bilaspur, and Hamirpur, and are set to conclude by 3 pm.

State Election Commission reports indicated 48.72% of women showed up to vote compared to 39.66% of male voters. Solan district reported the highest voter turnout at 51.12%, while Chamba had the lowest at 37.67%.