Assam and Kerala recorded exceptionally high voter participation on Thursday, signalling robust engagement in the assembly elections. According to the Election Commission, Assam achieved over 85 per cent turnout, while Kerala saw more than 78 per cent of voters cast their ballots.

Both states’ ruling parties are eyeing a third consecutive term. In Assam, Chief Minister Himanta Sarma described the turnout as “historic” and said, “The result of this election is already visible—in the hope, pride, and happiness on the faces of our people.” Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi countered that the turnout reflected the aspiration for a “new and greater Assam” under new leadership. He added, “It is now the responsibility of the ECI to ensure the security of EVMs and conduct the counting of votes accurately.”

Assam has 722 candidates contesting 126 constituencies, with 2.5 crore registered voters. In 2021, the state’s turnout was 82.04 per cent.

Kerala voters turn out in large numbers

Kerala witnessed a competitive poll, largely between the CPM-led Left Democratic Front (LDF) and the United Democratic Front (UDF). A total of 883 candidates are contesting across 140 assembly constituencies, representing 2.71 crore voters. CPM leader C N Mohanan said higher turnout would favour the LDF, crediting party workers for mobilising voters. BJP Ernakulam district president K S Shaiju attributed the rise to greater participation by women voters, which he said could benefit the BJP. Congress leader Deepthi Mary Varghese emphasised the need for careful analysis: “Usually, the trend is that when the polling percentage rises, it turns favourable to the UDF. However, a detailed analysis is required in this matter.”

Kerala Chief Electoral Officer Rathan U Kelkar expressed optimism that turnout could reach 90 per cent. In 2021, the state had 74.06 per cent voter participation.

Voting atmosphere and other highlights

Thursday also marked polling in the 30-member Puducherry assembly, which recorded more than 86 per cent turnout. The opposition Congress-led bloc aims to reclaim power from the AINRC-led government.

Elections across Kerala, Assam, and Puducherry were mostly peaceful, though minor clashes and seven arrests occurred in Assam. Senior leaders and public figures, including Chief Ministers Pinarayi Vijayan and Himanta Sarma, and Malayalam actors Mammootty and Mohanlal, cast their votes. A robot distributing flower petals greeted voters at a model polling booth in Puducherry, adding a unique touch to the process.

These elections form the first leg of voting in four states and one union territory, with West Bengal and Tamil Nadu set to vote later this month. Counting for all states and the UT will take place on 4 May. Polling took place amid public concern over the West Asia conflict, with the LPG crisis featuring prominently in campaigns.