Himachal Pradesh Records 66.56% Voter Turnout Amid Model Code Violation Allegations

Himachal Pradesh saw a voter turnout of 66.56% in the recent general elections. Allegations of model code violations against Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu have surfaced. Voter participation was notably high, with key politicians, including BJP's Anurag Thakur and Congress' Anand Sharma, casting their votes.

A voter turnout of 66.56% was recorded till 5 pm on Saturday in the four Lok Sabha constituencies of Himachal Pradesh during the final phase of the general election, according to officials.

The Kangra parliamentary seat saw 64.07% turnout, Mandi 69.07%, Hamirpur 65.90%, and the Shimla (SC) seat 67.50%. Bypolls in six assembly constituencies reported varied turnouts, with Lahaul and Spiti at 73.72% and Barsar at 50%.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu faces allegations of violating the model code of conduct after wearing a National Students Union of India scarf while voting, prompting BJP complaints. Residents in some areas boycotted the polls over unmet infrastructure demands, highlighting ongoing local grievances.

Chief political figures like Anurag Thakur (BJP), Anand Sharma (Congress), and Kangna Ranaut (BJP) were among those voting. Extensive security measures ensured smooth polling, with notable participation from elderly and first-time voters.