Kerala Voters Turn Out in Huge Numbers, 90% Turnout Within Reach

Thiruvananthapuram

oi-Gaurav Sharma

Published: Thursday, April 9, 2026, 16:34 [IST]

Kerala witnessed an enthusiastic voting day as citizens stepped out in large numbers for the Kerala Legislative Assembly election 2026, creating the possibility of one of the highest voter turnouts in the state’s electoral history. From the early morning hours, polling stations across the state saw long queues, signalling strong public interest in shaping the next government.

Data released by the Election Commission of India shows turnout steadily climbing through the day. By 9 am, about 16.23% of voters had already cast their ballots. The number rose to 33.30% by 11 am, crossed 49.70% by 1 pm, and reached 62.71% by 3 pm, reflecting a consistent flow of voters across districts.

Officials monitoring the process say the trend points toward a very high final turnout, possibly approaching the 90% mark, if participation continues at the same pace during the final hours of polling.

Kerala Chief Electoral Officer Rathan U Kelkar said the voting process has been peaceful and orderly, with enthusiastic participation from people of all age groups. He particularly highlighted the strong presence of young and first-time voters, nearly 4.6 lakh of whom are voting for the first time in this election.

In total, 2.71 crore voters are eligible to vote in Kerala, deciding the fate of 883 candidates contesting across 140 Assembly constituencies. The election is seen as a crucial political contest among three major alliances – the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF), the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF), and the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who voted in Kannur, said he trusts the people of Kerala to once again support the government’s development journey. Meanwhile, opposition leaders expressed confidence that the high turnout could favour a political change in the state.

The day also produced many memorable scenes that reflect Kerala’s strong voting culture. In one instance, a newly married couple arrived directly from their wedding ceremony to vote, while senior citizens patiently stood in line to participate in the democratic process. Such moments highlighted how seriously voters in Kerala treat their electoral duty.

Although a few minor disputes between political workers were reported at some polling stations, authorities said the overall process remained largely smooth and under control.

With polling continuing until 6 pm, the focus now is on whether Kerala will cross the 90% turnout milestone, a figure that would underline the state’s reputation for high political awareness and active voter participation.

The votes will be counted on May 4, when the results from Kerala, along with those from Assam and Puducherry, will reveal which alliance will lead the next government.