The ECI has been making sure to undertake interventions possible to boost voter turnout in the upcoming phases of elections.
In the ongoing Lok Sabha elections 2024, the third phase saw intense campaigning, with 92 seats across 11 states and UTs at stake. Key contests are expected to take place in Gujarat, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Karnataka. Ahead of it, the Election Commission of India has amped up its voter participation interventions to overcome the dip in turnout in the first two phases of Lok Sabha polls. The turnout in the first two phases were great but the turnout still remains below the high benchmarks of 2019.
Currently, the ECI has been making sure to boost voter turnout in the next 5 phases. The Commission has been pushing hard for three important factors: information, motivation, and facilitation, in the run up to the Lok Sabha elections.
Amid the moves by Election Commission of India, here are five tips that can help in increasing voter engagement and turnout in the elections:
Motivation is the biggest factor in increasing voter turnout in any form of elections, be it polls, student elections, or other types of political or social elections. Hence, in order to motivate voters to participate in an election, one must make the voter feel as part of a social community and how they can bring a change through voter participation. One needs to boost voter motivation by using personalised messages. Make sure to address voters by energising them to effectively use their vote, and hence, increase voter turnout at an election.
Make sure to target election campaigns to your voters by reaching out to them and increasing turnout. Always use effective language in the election campaigns by sending individual signals, more than social media or marketing methods.
Increased voter turnout is extremely important in order to legitimise the actions of elected leaders. Encouraging voters and appreciating them goes a long way in improving voter participation. One can send a few thank you letters and notes. Make sure to tell the voters the effect of the previous elections, which were achieved because of voter turnout, and inform them how there is a fresh opportunity yet again.
In today’s age, there is a need for young voters who can help you increase participation in the election. Since they live more digitally than older generations, they can effectively be reached online, which can improve voter turnout.
Sending voting reminders during the phases of the elections can increase voter participation, and voters can be offered a sense of appreciation and inclusivity. Sending a message to how their matters and is needed can instil a feeling of belonging and responsibility among the voting community.
Voting is an opportunity for every individual, and hence, boosting engagement is highly recommended. One must publicise the importance of the vote, highlight voting importance via social media and connect with younger voting audiences, and make sure that the voting system is clear for the online election.
