New Delhi, April 9 (NationPress) Voter participation in the Kerala Assembly elections has been documented at 62.71%, while Puducherry has surpassed the 70% threshold with a turnout of 72.40% as of 3 p.m. on Thursday, based on information released by the Election Commission of India (ECI).

In addition, Assam has shown a commendable voter turnout, indicating robust civic engagement in the electoral process. As per the preliminary polling data available until 3:00 p.m., Assam recorded a 75.91% voter turnout (VTR), highlighting significant electoral involvement across its various constituencies.

These figures reveal that voters in Assam are participating actively despite typical logistical hurdles and weather conditions. When compared to other regions voting concurrently, Assam is standing out with some of the highest participation rates, reflecting a strong political interest among its voters.

The polling for these crucial Assembly elections in Assam, Kerala, and Puducherry began at 7 a.m. today.

Voting is taking place for 126 Assembly seats in Assam, 140 in Kerala, and 30 in Puducherry. The results are expected to be announced on May 4.

In Kerala, approximately 2.71 crore voters will decide the future governance of the state. Even before sunrise, the electoral apparatus was actively engaged. By 5:30 a.m., all 30,471 polling booths across the state were operational, with officials carrying out mandatory mock polling procedures.

Significantly, nearly 200,000 voters have cast their votes through home voting.

Although the campaigning period has officially concluded, the final hours witnessed candidates from all fronts making last-minute efforts to connect with undecided voters and key influencers to ensure every vote counts, illustrating the unusually high stakes and palpable excitement surrounding this election.

In Assam, the primary competition is between the BJP and Congress. The ruling BJP seeks a third consecutive term, while the Congress aims to reclaim power after its last win in 2016.

Voting commenced in a single phase at 7 a.m. and is set to continue until 5 p.m.. Long queues of voters were visible outside polling stations early this morning. Assam's 126-member Assembly will complete its current term on May 20.

The polling process in Puducherry also started smoothly on Thursday morning, with voters consistently arriving at booths to elect representatives to the 30-member Assembly.

This election holds particular significance as the Union Territory is presently governed by a coalition led by the All India N.R. Congress (AINRC), under Chief Minister N. Rangasamy, with backing from the BJP.

A competitive battle is anticipated, with all major political entities striving for dominance.