New Delhi: As polling commenced in 49 constituencies for the fifth phase of the Lok Sabha elections, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday urged citizens to cast their votes for love over hatred and to oppose unemployment and inflation.
Voting is taking place in 49 constituencies across six states and two union territories in this fifth phase, which will determine the political futures of several prominent leaders, including former Congress President Rahul Gandhi, Union Ministers Rajnath Singh and Smriti Irani, and former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.
In a post on X, Kharge stated in Hindi, “To protect democracy and the Constitution, we must vote. Before pressing the button on the EVM, remember to vote for love and brotherhood, not for hatred.”
“We must vote against unemployment and inflation, not to enrich a few capitalists. We need to vote for the protection of our fundamental rights, not for those who would take them away,” the Congress President emphasized.
He further urged voters to cast their ballots for justice, not for injustice and oppression.
“Vote for democracy, not for dictatorship. The voters in the eight states and union territories participating today across 49 Lok Sabha seats will vote based on the agendas of youth justice (Yuva Nyay), women’s justice (Naari Nyay), farmers’ justice (Kisaan Nyay), workers’ justice (Shramik Nyay), and participatory justice (Hissedari Nyay).
“When you press the EVM button, it will further destabilize the already shaky foundation of dictatorship, thereby strengthening democracy,” Kharge said.
He also extended a welcome to first-time voters, highlighting their historical responsibility.
“The trends from the first four phases indicate that the end of autocratic rule is imminent. Today marks the fifth step towards this change,” the Congress President asserted.
He concluded by stating that a new beginning would emerge on June 4.
