Thiruvananthapuram/Guwahati, April 9 Voters turned out in large numbers across Kerala and Assam on Thursday, with participation levels crossing recent benchmarks in both states, according to the Election Commission.
In Assam, turnout surged past 85 per cent, making it the highest recorded in the state’s assembly election history. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma described the polling as “historic”, suggesting that public sentiment was already visible in the mood of voters.
However, Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi said the strong turnout reflected a desire for change and a “new and greater Assam”. He also called on the Election Commission to ensure the security of electronic voting machines and accuracy in counting.
A total of 722 candidates are contesting across 126 constituencies in Assam, where around 2.5 crore voters are eligible to cast their ballots. The state had recorded a turnout of just over 82 per cent in the 2021 election.
In Kerala, more than 78 per cent of voters exercised their franchise, continuing the state’s tradition of high electoral participation. The contest remains largely between the Left Democratic Front (LDF) and the United Democratic Front (UDF), with 883 candidates in the fray across 140 constituencies and an electorate of 2.71 crore.
Leaders from different parties offered varying interpretations of the turnout. CPI(M)’s C N Mohanan suggested higher participation could benefit the ruling LDF, while BJP leader K S Shaiju attributed it to increased participation by women voters. Congress leader Deepthi Mary Varghese said the trend would require closer analysis, noting that higher turnout has historically favoured the UDF.
Kerala’s Chief Electoral Officer Rathan U Kelkar expressed optimism that turnout could approach 90 per cent. The state had recorded just over 74 per cent voting in the last assembly election.
Polling was also held in the Union Territory of Puducherry, where turnout crossed 86 per cent. The Congress-led opposition is seeking to unseat the ruling AINRC-led alliance in the 30-member assembly.
The elections in Kerala and Assam are being closely watched, with both ruling alliances aiming for a third consecutive term. In Assam, the BJP faces a strong challenge from Congress, while in Kerala, the LDF is attempting to retain power in a state known for alternating governments.
Thursday’s voting marked the first phase of assembly elections across four states and one Union Territory. Polling in West Bengal will take place in two phases later this month, while Tamil Nadu will vote in a single phase. Counting for all regions is scheduled for May 4.
The elections have unfolded against the backdrop of global tensions affecting fuel supplies, an issue that featured prominently in campaigning. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other BJP leaders assured voters of stable LPG supplies, while opposition parties raised concerns over shortages.
Polling remained largely peaceful in Kerala and Puducherry. In Assam, however, authorities reported minor clashes at some polling stations, with seven people detained in connection with election-related incidents.
Several prominent figures cast their votes, including Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Assam Chief Minister Sarma, and actors Mammootty and Mohanlal.
In Puducherry, voters were greeted by a robot offering flower petals at a model polling booth, adding a touch of novelty to the electoral exercise.
Assam voter turnout crosses 85 pc as Kerala records over 78 pc in assembly polls
