Kerala, 23 April (H.S.): A strong voter turnout of around 70% was recorded across Tamil Nadu till 3 p.m. on Thursday in the ongoing Assembly elections, reflecting enthusiastic participation from voters across both urban and rural regions.
However, the polling process was marred by an incident of violence in the Poompuhar Assembly constituency of Mayiladuthurai district, where a police officer on election duty was stabbed inside a polling booth.
According to police, the attack took place at a booth in Poraiyar, where voting had been progressing smoothly since morning. A head constable attached to the Kuthalam police station was suddenly assaulted by a man using a small knife.
The injured officer sustained wounds on his neck and hands and was immediately taken to a nearby hospital. Officials said his condition is stable. Security has been intensified in the area, and a manhunt has been launched to apprehend the accused.
Despite the isolated incident, polling continued without major disruptions in most parts of the State, with voters turning out in large numbers despite the heat.
Among districts, Namakkal recorded one of the highest turnouts at 76.43%, followed by Erode at 75.61%. Ranipet registered 72.46%, while Tirupattur and Vellore reported 71.67% and 71.23% respectively. Kallakurichi saw 70.76% polling, and Chengalpattu recorded 69.40%, indicating steady participation.
In contrast, southern districts reported comparatively lower turnout, with Kanniyakumari at 61.95% and Tirunelveli at 62.41%.
In Krishnagiri district, overall turnout stood at 70.07%, with Bargur leading at 72.48%, followed by Uthangarai (72.07%) and Vepanahalli (72.10%). Urban constituencies such as Hosur and Krishnagiri lagged slightly.
Coimbatore district also witnessed steady polling, with Sulur (74.47%) and Kavundampalayam (73.92%) recording strong participation, while urban segments like Coimbatore South and North saw relatively lower turnout.
Meanwhile, residents of Muthalaimedu Thittu village in Kollidam boycotted the polls, protesting against the lack of basic amenities such as roads and drinking water.
Overall, authorities maintained strict vigil, and polling remained largely peaceful across Tamil Nadu.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
