New Delhi, April 9 (NationPress) Voting commenced across the state of Kerala on Thursday, with political figures displaying optimism and encouraging residents to participate in what is widely regarded as a pivotal election for the future of the region.

Kerala Minister P. Rajeev voted at the Ambedkar Training Centre in Vidya Nagar Colony, making an early appearance to fulfill his civic duty.

"We are feeling very optimistic about the people's choice, as I trust they will vote for the continuity of our government. In this area, I have diligently worked to keep the promises made to the electorate in 2021," stated P. Rajeev.

Approximately 16% of Kerala's electorate, totaling 2.71 crore, had voted within the initial two hours, creating an enthusiastic atmosphere for the day.

IUML leader P.K. Kunhalikutty expressed his faith in the United Democratic Front (UDF), proclaiming, "Let's wait and see; this time, the UDF will surely secure power. All indicators suggest that the majority favors the UDF, who is anticipated to achieve a clear and significant victory."

Congress leader and State Leader of Opposition V. D. Satheesan also conveyed confidence, asserting, "I have consistently communicated my aim for a 100% success rate. I have maintained this position throughout the electoral process, and we will achieve this goal."

He further remarked, "I am highly confident that the UDF will return with over 100 seats. From the outset, I have conveyed this sentiment because I have traveled throughout the state four times in three months, observing the prevailing trends."

UDF candidate K. Muraleedharan noted the considerable enthusiasm among voters at his polling location: "There is a desire for change among the people. I have stood in line for about half an hour, which is unprecedented. Previously, when I voted at the same booth, there was never a queue. This time, however, it is bustling. This area is significant in the electorate, and citizens are showing up to vote actively."

After an intense 23 days of campaigning, Kerala faced its decision day on Thursday, with polling commencing at 7 a.m. across all 140 constituencies and continuing until 6 p.m.

Even before dawn, officials had prepared the state's 30,471 polling booths and carried out compulsory mock polling. By 6:30 a.m., voters had begun lining up, reflecting strong civic involvement.

In regions such as Chooralmala in Wayanad, still recovering from the catastrophic landslide that took more than 200 lives, participating in the election held profound emotional significance for some residents who remembered their loved ones lost since the last elections in 2021.

As Kerala approaches the conclusion of this election, the results are expected to influence the state's political and developmental trajectory for the foreseeable future, with vote counting slated for May 4.