Two phases of LS polls record rise in vulnerable tribal groups' turnout

A significant number of 'Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups' (PVTGS) and other tribes participated in the electoral process in the nine states, including Bihar, Tamil Nadu, Chhattisgarh and Gujarat.

- RAJESH KUMAR THAKUR

They reportedly exercised their franchise in large numbers in the first and second phases of the Lok Sabha polls.

Notably, the Sharpen tribe of Great Nicobar participated in the elections after a couple of years of sustained efforts by the Election Commission of India (EC). As per an official source, Madhya Pradesh has three groups of PVTGS, namely Baiga, Bhariya and Sharai, and they were seen casting their vote enthusiastically.