With the Election Commission of India (ECI) announcing the dates for Lok Sabha polls 2019, political parties across the spectrum have got into the “battle mode” with more vigour, energy, and strategic moves.

Amid all the electoral hullabaloo, and attacks and counter-attacks launched by the leaders and cadres alike, the players are leaving no stone unturned to impress upon the voters. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday reached out to bitter rival, Congress president Rahul Gandhi, other politicians, sportspersons, actors, and business leaders to encourage as many voters possible to come out and vote according to their respective schedule.

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“I appeal to Rahul Gandhi, (West Bengal Chief Minister) Mamata (Banerjee), (NCP chief) Sharad Pawar, (BSP supremo) Mayawati, (SP chief) Akhilesh Yadav, (RJD leader) Tejashwi Yadav and (DMK chief) MK Stalin to encourage increased voter participation in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. A high turnout augurs well for our democratic fabric,” he tweeted.

I appeal to @RahulGandhi, @MamataOfficial, @PawarSpeaks, @Mayawati, @yadavakhilesh, @yadavtejashwi and @mkstalin to encourage increased voter participation in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. A high turnout augurs well for our democratic fabric.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 13, 2019

He also tagged sportspersons PV Sindhu, Saina Nehwal, S Kidambi; actors Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, business leaders Ratan Tata and Anand Mahindra among others making a similar request.

Dear @srikidambi, @Pvsindhu1 & @NSaina,

The core of badminton is the court and the core of democracy is the vote.

Just like you smash records, do also inspire a record-breaking voter turnout. I request you to increase voter awareness & motivate youth to vote in large numbers.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 13, 2019

Dear @RNTata2000, @anandmahindra and @ashishchauhan,

India wins when our democracy gets strengthened.

Ensuring maximum participation in voting is the perfect way to strengthen democracy.

Can we all make this happen?

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 13, 2019

The Lok Sabha elections 2019 will be held in seven phases from 11 April to 19 May while the counting will be held on May 23, the Election Commission of India announced on March 10 at a press conference in New Delhi’s Vigyan Bhawan.

Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora told the media that the number of voters had risen to 90 crore from 81 crore in 2014, the last General Elections.

The General Elections are being held for 543 seats of the 17th Lok Sabha.