In what was anticipated to be a politically charged event, the culmination of the general elections for the 20 seats in Kerala revealed a striking decrease in voter turnout. The latest statistics indicate a notable decline from the 77.84 per cent polling rate recorded in the 2019 elections, plummeting to 71.16 per cent, marking a significant 6.68 per cent reduction.
Among the districts, Pathanamthitta experienced the most substantial decrease, with a staggering 10.95 per cent drop in elector participation. Several factors have been attributed to this decline, including the soaring temperature exceeding 40 degrees Celsius. Economic challenges have also played a role, impacting both campaigning efforts and voter turnout.
Moreover, a trend of migration for employment and educational opportunities, particularly from districts such as Ernakulam, Idukki, Kottayam, and Pathanamthitta, has further contributed to the decrease in voter engagement. This migration pattern has notably affected the constituencies of Chalakudy, Ernakulam, Idukki, Kottayam, Pathanamthitta, and Mavelikkara the most, with reports indicating that over 33 per cent of middle-class families in Kerala have at least one member who has migrated.
Kerala boasts approximately 2.77 crore registered voters, with 194 candidates vying for the 20 Lok Sabha constituencies in the state.The political landscape saw intense and aggressive poll campaigns by the CPI(M)-led ruling LDF, Congress-headed UDF, and the BJP-led NDA.
Polling took place amidst tight security arrangements, with over 66,000 security personnel deployed and the election process live-monitored via an extensive webcasting system. The voting commenced at 7 am following a mock poll where votes were cast in favor of all candidates, including NOTA, listed on electronic voting machines (EVMs).
However, technical glitches and EVM breakdowns, along with instances of bogus voting, marred the day at several booths across the state. These issues led to significant delays, resulting in long queues towards the end of the day as voters waited patiently to exercise their democratic right.
Despite the challenges faced, the democratic process in Kerala proceeded, reflecting the resilience and determination of its electorate to participate in shaping the future of the state and the nation
