Fewer flights, soaring fares: NRI voter turnout likely to drop for Kerala Assembly polls

Kannur (Kerala): Despite a record number of expatriates (NRIs) appearing on the voter list, the likelihood of them flying home to vote has diminished due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia. The primary hurdles are the major reduction in flight services and the subsequent spike in ticket prices.

Expatriate votes hold substantial sway in Malabar constituencies such as Kuttiadi, Nadapuram, Kannur, Azhikode and Kuthuparamba. The UDF had calculated that these votes would be crucial in reclaiming seats lost by slim margins in the previous election.

In constituencies like Koyilandy and Taliparamba, where the contest is intensifying, pro-UDF organisations are attempting to arrange chartered flights for voters. Currently, there are 2,28,558 expatriates registered on the state's voter list.

Impact of regional conflict

Plans to hold conventions in the Gulf featuring top leaders and candidates—aimed at mobilising voters—were derailed by the sudden outbreak of war. As the elections were announced shortly thereafter, many of these initiatives had to be abandoned.

Currently, many travellers from various Gulf nations are forced to obtain visas for Saudi Arabia and travel through Saudi airports to reach Kerala. This process can cost an individual over ₹100,000.

"Efforts to register voters are ongoing. We will move forward with plans to bring voters home as the situation evolves," said Shamsuddin Vellikkulangara, general secretary of Bahrain KMCC.

Rijith Mottappara, national secretary of Bahrain OICC, mentioned that they are considering arranging chartered flights through private fundraising. Meanwhile, Hareesh Kumar, Kozhikode district secretary of INCAS Qatar, expressed concern that surcharges would impose a heavy financial burden even on those who booked tickets early.

Constituencies with high expatriate vote counts