How Many Nominations Were Filed for Kerala's Two-Phase Local Body Elections?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- 1,64,427 nominations filed across Kerala
- High participation from women candidates
- Polling dates set for December 9 and December 11
- Vote counting on December 13
- Kerala has 2.84 crore registered voters
Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 21 (NationPress) A remarkable 1,64,427 nomination papers have been submitted across Kerala, showcasing vibrant political engagement in the upcoming two-phase local body elections.
The deadline for filing nominations closed on Friday evening, marking a significant phase in the state's electoral timeline.
These elections will encompass 23,576 wards and divisions, making it one of the most extensive democratic endeavors at the community level.
Malappuram district has emerged as the leader with 19,959 nominations, while Wayanad has the fewest at 5,227.
In total, 1,08,580 candidates are contesting, with a notable representation of 57,227 women, 51,352 men, and one transgender candidate, indicating a progressive shift in electoral representation.
Kerala will conduct polls in two phases to select representatives for municipal corporations, municipalities, gram panchayats, block panchayats, and district panchayats.
The elections for seven southern and central districts—including Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Alappuzha, Pathanamthitta, Idukki, Kottayam, and Ernakulam—are set for December 9, while seven northern districts—Thrissur, Palakkad, Kozhikode, Malappuram, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod—will vote on December 11.
Votes will be tallied and results announced on December 13, facilitating the establishment of new local governing bodies.
According to the voter registry released by the State Election Commission on October 25, Kerala has 2.84 crore registered voters who will determine the fate of candidates from national, regional, and independent parties.
The election timeline indicates that nomination scrutiny will occur on November 22, with the final withdrawal date for candidates on November 24.
With a significant number of female candidates and enthusiastic participation across various regions, this year's elections are anticipated to be fiercely competitive, providing fresh perspectives on political trends and grassroots governance priorities in Kerala.
Notably, this election will feature a triangular contest among the ruling CPI-M-led Left, the Congress-led UDF, and the BJP-led NDA, setting the stage for the upcoming assembly elections scheduled for April/May next year.