How to vote for the Lok Sabha Elections 2024: A guide for first-time voters

India is a country of young people, and every new year the number of first-time voters increases significantly. Millions of new voters experience voting for the first time. It is not a complicated process but can be a little overwhelming if not prepped properly. 

This year, over 1.8 crore voters aged between 18-19 will cast their vote for the first time in the Lok Sabha elections in 2024. According to the Election Commission (EC), the voting for the 543 Lok Sabha seats will occur in seven different phases i.e. April 19, April 26, May 7, May 13, May 20, May 25, and June 1. The counting of votes will begin on June 4. 

If you are a first-time voter, here is the step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth first-time voting experience in the Lok Sabha elections 2024. 

Check your eligibility 

To vote in the election you have to be 18 or above. If you are 18 years old by January 1 of the year the electoral roll/voter list is prepared, you are eligible to vote. 

Registration 

If you are a first-time voter, you have to register to vote. One can do it by filling out a form on the official Election Commission of India website or can do it offline. 

Check your name on the voter list

Only people with their names on the voter list can cast a vote, so make sure your name is on the list after your registration. You can visit the ECI website to check your name on the voter list. 

Polling booth 

Locate your allocated polling booth. It is where you'll vote on the polling day. 

Identity documents

Make sure you carry your ID cards and documents like your voter ID. Also, carry your Aadhaar card or driving licence as additional documents. 

Voting day  

At the polling booth, the first pilling officer will check your ID and once your name matches with the voter list, the second polling officer marks your finger with the ink. After that, a signature and a thumb impression is required for registration. 

Voting on EVM

Once done with registration, vote for your candidate by pressing the blue button next to their name and symbol. After the vote is done, the machine emits a beep sound, confirming that the vote has been registered. A slip will be provided as a confirmation of your vote. 

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