Kerala Rural, Urban Polls: Over 70% Voter Turnout in First Phase
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Kerala's first phase of local body elections saw a remarkable voter turnout, with over 70% of registered voters casting their ballots in seven districts. The State Election Commission reported an average turnout of 71% by 7 pm, with several polling stations witnessing long queues even after the official voting deadline. In Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, and Ernakulam districts, the turnout ranged from 67.10% to 74.31%. The final figures are expected to be around 75%, according to State Election Commissioner A Shajahan. Polling was generally peaceful, except for a confrontation between LDF and BJP activists in Thiruvananthapuram Corporation limits. Repolling has been scheduled in Alappuzha's Mannanchery panchayat after a technical issue was reported. All three major fronts - LDF, UDF, and NDA - are optimistic about their performance in the polls, which are seen as a semi-final before the Assembly elections next year. The second phase of polls will take place in seven districts on Thursday, with counting scheduled for December 13.
