Thiruvananthapuram, 03 May (H.S.):The 25-day wait marked by intense speculation and political anxiety is set to end on Monday as Kerala prepares for the counting of votes for the Assembly elections. The counting process will begin at 8 a.m., with postal ballots to be taken up first, setting the tone for what is expected to be a closely watched electoral verdict.

Over 15,000 officials have been deployed across counting centres to ensure a smooth and secure process. Political Kerala is on edge, with all three major fronts—the United Democratic Front (UDF), the Left Democratic Front (LDF), and the National Democratic Alliance (NDA)—expressing confidence about their prospects.

The UDF has exuded strong optimism, claiming it will comfortably cross the majority mark of 71 seats and could even secure over 85 seats. Some leaders within the alliance have gone a step further, predicting a wave that could push their tally close to 100 seats. Exit poll projections indicating an edge for the UDF have further boosted morale within the camp.

However, the ruling LDF has firmly rejected these projections, maintaining that it is poised to return to power for a historic third consecutive term. The front estimates it could win up to 75 seats, banking on governance continuity and welfare measures.

Meanwhile, the NDA is hopeful of improving its presence in the Assembly, with expectations of winning at least two seats. The BJP-led alliance is confident about retaining Nemom and Kazhakkoottam, while also eyeing potential upsets in constituencies such as Palakkad and Chathannoor.

The outcome holds significant political implications. A defeat for the LDF would leave it without power in any Indian state, while another loss for the UDF after a decade in opposition could trigger serious questions about its organisational strength in Kerala. All eyes are now on the counting centres as the state awaits its next government.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman