Puducherry, April 9 (NationPress) - Voting has begun without any hitches across the Union Territory of Puducherry this Thursday morning, as voters have been consistently arriving at polling booths to select their representatives for the 30-member Assembly.

Election officials noted a peaceful and systematic commencement, reporting no significant disruptions during the early hours.

Polling started at 7 a.m. at a total of 1,099 polling stations and will continue until 6 p.m.. Authorities are optimistic that the electoral process will remain calm and efficiently managed throughout the day, with comprehensive arrangements established to assist voters.

This election is particularly crucial as the Union Territory is currently under a coalition government led by the All India N.R. Congress (AINRC), with Chief Minister N. Rangasamy at the helm, receiving backing from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

A highly competitive contest is anticipated, with various political factions striving for dominance. Chief Electoral Officer P. Jawahar indicated that extensive preparations have been made to ensure a transparent and fair election.

A total of 4,836 polling personnel are on duty, accompanied by 2,791 police personnel and 30 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) to uphold law and order.

Increased security measures have been implemented, especially in sensitive areas. 209 polling stations have been marked as vulnerable, with five identified as critical. These sites are under constant surveillance, with micro-observers and CAPF members assigned to closely monitor the proceedings.

Officials also emphasized the extensive efforts made to improve voter convenience.

Approximately 2,000 student volunteers have been stationed at polling places to assist senior citizens and individuals with disabilities, promoting inclusive participation in the democratic process.

Leading up to the elections, enforcement teams maintained rigorous oversight under the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). Authorities confiscated suspected bribes totaling around Rs 8.4 crore during the campaign, including gold and other precious items worth Rs 6.7 crore, Rs 77 lakh in cash, and liquor valued at Rs 68 lakh, reflecting robust monitoring efforts.

Even after the campaigning concluded on Tuesday evening, surveillance teams continued their operations to avert any infractions.

Election officials confirmed that all requisite arrangements have been established to ensure voters can freely exercise their rights.

With a voter turnout of over 82 percent recorded in the 2021 Assembly elections, officials are hopeful that participation may surpass previous levels, showcasing strong public interest in the electoral process.