Thiruvananthapuram, Dec 9 (NationPress) An impressive surge in voter engagement characterized the initial phase of Kerala's local body elections held late last week, with the State Election Commission announcing a remarkable 71 percent turnout across seven districts until 7 p.m., officials stated on Tuesday.

Officials are optimistic that the final turnout will reach 75 percent as polling concludes and late votes are counted, highlighting a strong public commitment to grassroots democracy.

Ernakulam achieved the highest turnout at 74.21 percent, demonstrating significant enthusiasm among urban and semi-urban voters, while Pathanamthitta reported the lowest at 66.55 percent.

Other districts showed steady voter participation: Thiruvananthapuram at 67.1 percent, Kollam at 70 percent, Alappuzha at 73.58 percent, Kottayam at 70.68 percent, and Idukki at 71.28 percent.

Long lines were evident outside polling booths even after official hours, indicating a strong commitment from the electorate.

To ensure that no eligible voter was denied the opportunity to vote, election officials provided tokens to those in line, allowing them to cast their votes without interruption.

This substantial voter turnout has prompted sharp political reactions across party lines.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan regarded the polling trend as a sign of a 'historic advance', reflecting confidence within the ruling Left Democratic Front.

In contrast, Congress leaders viewed the voter turnout as an early indication of a shift in political power, while BJP representatives suggested that Kerala may be on the verge of reevaluating its political stance.

As focus shifts to the second phase of voting, campaign activities in the remaining seven districts, scheduled for polling on Thursday, have concluded.

Political parties wrapped up their outreach with energetic finale rallies, transforming the last day of campaigning into a vibrant display of competitive mobilization.

However, the lead-up was not without incidents, as clashes were reported in Onchiyam and Pookkottur, necessitating increased security and diligent monitoring by authorities.

With the first phase showcasing strong voter participation and intense political dynamics, expectations are high for another decisive outcome in the remaining districts.

Notably, during the 2020 local body elections, the ruling Left Democratic Party achieved an overwhelming victory amidst Covid-19 protocols.

This time, however, Kerala has experienced a vigorous campaign, and as votes are tallied on Saturday, the results are anticipated to reflect a return to a fiercely contested political environment.