A first for the voters - the 'None of the Above' (NOTA) option will be introduced in the Lok Sabha elections.
NEW DELHI: India will elect a new Lok Sabha over a nine-day period from April 7 to May 12, and the results will be announced May 16, the Election Commission announced Wednesday.
The world's largest democratic exercise will involve a staggering 814 million voters, an increase of some 100 million from 2009 and a sharp rise from the 176 million in the first parliamentary polls of 1952.
Simultaneous assembly elections will be held in Sikkim, Odisha and Andhra Pradesh, Chief Election Commissioner V.S. Sampath said while unveiling the staggered election schedule.
"Credible elections are the very soul and hallmark of any democratic system," Sampath told the media.
Polling will take place for 543 of the 545 Lok Sabha seats -- two members are nominated by the president -- on April 7, 9, 10, 12, 17, 24 and 30 and May 7 and 12.
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INDIA, being the largest democracy, attracts worldwide attention in every aspect. Be it it's culture or the people. Forthcoming General Elections 2014, especially, has the world's eyes on it. Keeping in mind the immense interest generated, we at "Tourism Development Corporation" are providing packages under our especially designed campaign - "Election Tourism India 2014". The visitors will have an opportunity to explore our vibrant democracy accommodating different cultures, the workings of various national/state political parties and can be part of their election rallies too. I look forward to welcoming all.