The second phase of India’s national election, the world’s largest, concluded on Friday amid flagging voter turnout.
Approximate voter turnout data at the end of polling put Friday’s turnout at 61%, lower than the 65% in the first phase last week, and 68% in the second phase five years ago.
In Uttar Pradesh, just over 50% of voters turned out according to local media, compared to more than 60% in 2019.
Almost 1 billion people in the world’s most populous nation are eligible to vote, with results set for June 4.
There are seven phases in India’s national election, and attention will now turn to the third round scheduled for May 7.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to win a historic third term, supported by issues such as economic growth, welfare, and hardline Hindu nationalism.
