Thiruvananthapuram, 09 April (H.S.):

Malayalam superstar Mohanlal was among the early voters as Kerala went to the polls on Thursday, setting the tone for a high-energy voting day across the state. He cast his vote in Mudavanmugal drawing attention as long queues formed at polling booths from the early hours.

Actor-turned-politician Suresh Gopi was also seen standing in line to cast his vote in Guruvayoor, reflecting the enthusiasm among voters cutting across demographics.

Leader of the Opposition V. D. Satheesan exercised his franchise in Paravoor and expressed confidence that the United Democratic Front (UDF) would secure a decisive mandate, projecting over 100 seats for the alliance. Indian Union Muslim League leader P. K. Kunhalikutty echoed similar optimism, stating that the UDF would win a majority and that the League expects to secure a substantial number of seats in what he described as a closely fought election.

Panakkad Syed Sadiq Ali Shihab Thangal remarked that the recent local body elections were only a “semi-final,” expressing confidence in a UDF victory.

Across Kerala, voters turned out in large numbers, with long queues seen at polling stations in both urban and rural areas. The state has a total electorate of 2.71 crore voters, including 1.32 crore men, 1.39 crore women, and 273 transgender persons. Additionally, 2.42 lakh overseas voters are eligible to participate. While Kerala traditionally records high turnout, participation had dipped from 77.10% in 2016 to 73.9% in 2021.

Meanwhile, a minor incident of violence was reported from Mattannur in Kannur district, where a BJP booth agent was allegedly injured in a stone-pelting incident. Authorities said the situation was quickly brought under control, and polling continued peacefully in most parts of the state.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman