NOTA Emerges as Second Runner-Up in Indore Lok Sabha, Constituting 1% of Votes Nationwide
Amit Singh
Nation, 05 June 2024: In a surprising turn of events, the None of the Above (NOTA) option has emerged as the second runner-up in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, with a notable presence nationwide, constituting approximately 1% of the total votes cast.
Madhya Pradesh witnessed a significant turnout for NOTA, with Indore alone recording a staggering 2.18 lakh voters opting for the ‘none of the above’ option. This unprecedented number underscores the electorate’s growing inclination to exercise their right to reject all candidates presented to them.
Despite NOTA’s remarkable showing, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate Shankar Lalwani secured a decisive victory in Indore, clinching the seat with an impressive margin of 10.09 lakhs votes. However, NOTA emerged as the closest competitor to Lalwani, garnering 2,18,674 votes, positioning itself as a noteworthy contender in the electoral landscape.
The nationwide trend reflects Bihar’s highest NOTA turnout among major states, with 2.07% of voters opting for this alternative. Following closely behind, Madhya Pradesh recorded 1.41% of voters choosing NOTA, indicating a growing trend of voter dissatisfaction with available political options.
The introduction of the NOTA option in October 2013, as mandated by a Supreme Court order, has provided voters with a mechanism to express their disillusionment with traditional candidates while still participating in the democratic process. NOTA’s significant presence in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections highlights the need for political parties to address voter concerns and restore confidence in the electoral system.
