Assam records 85%, Puducherry crosses 89% turnout as polling ends

Assam recorded a voter turnout of over 85%, while Kerala saw participation cross 78% in the Assembly elections held on Thursday, according to the latest Election Commission figures. Puducherry, meanwhile, registered a record turnout of 89.87%—its highest since the first elections were held in 1964. The high polling comes as the ruling governments in Assam and Kerala seek a third consecutive term in power.

Describing the turnout as “historic,” Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said the election outcome was already visible “in the hope, pride and happiness” on people’s faces. Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi, however, said the strong participation reflected a mandate for “a new and greater Assam” and fresh leadership. He also underlined the responsibility of the Election Commission to ensure the security of EVMs and the accurate counting of votes.

Both Sarma and Gogoi are among the 722 candidates contesting from 126 constituencies, with an electorate of around 2.5 crore. In comparison, Assam recorded a turnout of 82.04% in the 2021 Assembly elections.

The polls mark the first phase of elections across four states and one Union Territory—Kerala, Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. West Bengal will go to the polls in two phases on April 23 and April 29, while Tamil Nadu will vote in a single phase on April 23. Counting for all states and the UT is scheduled for May 4.

The elections are being held against the backdrop of the West Asia conflict, which has raised concerns over a possible LPG shortage. The issue featured prominently during campaigning, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other BJP leaders assuring a stable supply, while the opposition criticised the Centre over the potential crisis.

Polling remained largely peaceful in Kerala and Puducherry. In Assam, seven people were detained in connection with poll-related violence, while minor clashes at a few booths led to slight injuries.

Several prominent leaders and public figures cast their votes, including Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Sarma. Malayalam actors Mammootty and Mohanlal were also among those who participated in the voting process.

In Puducherry, a model polling booth at the VOC Government Higher Secondary School in the Raj Bhavan constituency drew attention, where a robot welcomed voters with flower petals and greeted them as they entered.
(Inputs from PTI)