Lok Sabha polls: PM Modi urges voters to turn out in large numbers, Rahul appeals to vote wisely for 'soul of India'

As the Lok Sabha elections began Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged voters to turn out in large numbers to exercise their franchise.

"I call upon all those whose constituencies are voting in the first phase today to turn out in record numbers and exercise their franchise," he tweeted.

During elections, Modi often takes to Twitter to urge people to vote. "I specially urge young and first-time voters to vote in large numbers," he said.

Congress President Rahul Gandhi also tweeted, urging voters to vote wisely for the soul of India and its future.

Referring to promises made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi before assuming power, Gandhi reminded voters that instead of jobs and Rs 15 lakh in bank accounts of people, the Modi government has given them "no jobs, distrust, violence, hate and fear".

"You vote today for the soul of India. For her future. Vote wisely," he said on Twitter.

"No 2 Crore JOBS. No 15 Lakhs in Bank A/C. No ACCHE DIN. Instead: No JOBS. DEMONETISATION. Farmers in Pain. GABBAR SINGH TAX. Suit Boot Sarkar. RAFALE. Lies. Lies. Lies. Distrust. Violence. HATE. Fear," he also said.

The first phase of voting in the seven-phased crucial Lok Sabha elections is underway in 91 constituencies. The Congress and other opposition parties are seeking to wrest power from the Narendra Modi-led government, which is seeking another term. 

(With PTI inputs)