Thiruvananthapuram: After nearly a month of intense campaigning, Kerala’s electorate cast their votes in the Assembly elections on Thursday. Despite the sweltering heat, voters turned out in impressive numbers.

According to the latest figures, voter turnout stood at 78.24 per cent, and final numbers are expected to rise further, surpassing the 2021 record 75 per cent). Voting officially ended at 6 pm, though long queues were reported at several booths.

Polling began at 7 am across all 140 constituencies and 30,495 stations, with long queues forming from the first hour. Participation remained steady throughout the day, with a sharp afternoon surge fuelling hopes that turnout could surpass 80% – a level last reached in 1987, and approaching the historic high of 85% recorded in 1960.

District-wise turnout highlights

Early reports from several booths indicate that Kozhikode recorded the highest turnout at 81.32 per cent. Palakkad also saw impressive participation, with polling exceeding 80 per cent. In contrast, Pathanamthitta registered the lowest turnout in the state, at 70.76 per cent.

Comprehensive revision of the electoral rolls this year could have contributed to a natural increase in turnout.

Election officials, led by Chief Electoral Officer Rathan U. Khelkar, had set an ambitious target of 85%. While challenging, the current trend suggests that crossing 80% is within reach.

Voter list revisions and heightened engagement

The election followed extensive revisions of the voter list, which may have contributed to the increase in turnout. Kerala’s electorate comprises 1.32 crore men, 1.39 crore women, 273 transgender voters and over 2.42 lakh overseas voters, deciding the fate of 883 candidates.

Voting proceeded under strict security, with webcasting systems for real-time monitoring. Officials credited strong turnout to heightened voter awareness, competitive campaigning, and a clear sense of the stakes. Among early voters were actor Mohanlal, senior Congress leader V. D. Satheesan in Paravoor, and Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar.

Voter engagement remained consistent across urban and rural regions, keeping the contest closely watched. Political parties now have 25 days for campaign consolidation before counting on 4 May.

Reports of misconduct and key political stakes

Isolated incidents of misconduct were reported. In Kozhikode’s Nadapuram constituency, a minor boy attempted to vote using another person’s voter ID. In Palakkad’s Chittur, controversy arose after a social media post allegedly soliciting votes for an LDF candidate appeared on the NDA candidate’s page. The post was later removed, with the NDA candidate stating, “It was posted without my knowledge.”

In Kasaragod’s Thrikaripur constituency, Mucuna pruriens powder was thrown at a UDF female booth agent, who is also a former block panchayat member. She was admitted to a private hospital due to physical discomfort.

The election is being closely tracked as voters decide whether the Left Democratic Front (LDF) can secure a third consecutive term, or if the United Democratic Front (UDF) or BJP-led NDA can alter the outcome. Kerala has traditionally alternated between LDF and UDF governments, while the BJP is seeking to expand its presence, adding a new dimension to the contest.