Kerala Votes in High-Stakes Election as 2.71 Crore Electorate Heads to Polls

Thiruvananthapuram, April 2026 : Kerala entered a crucial phase of its democratic process on Thursday as nearly 2.71 crore voters began casting their ballots to decide the state’s next government after weeks of intense campaigning.

Even before sunrise, the state’s extensive electoral machinery was fully operational. By 5:30 a.m., all 30,471 polling booths were activated, with officials conducting mandatory mock polls to ensure the smooth functioning of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). Following these procedures, polling formally commenced at 7 a.m. across all 140 constituencies and will continue until 6 p.m.

Early signs pointed to strong voter enthusiasm, with queues forming as early as 6:30 a.m. In several parts of the state, including Thodupuzha, elderly voters were seen lining up in large numbers, reflecting Kerala’s long-standing tradition of high civic participation.

In Chooralmala in Wayanad, where a devastating landslide had earlier claimed over 200 lives, the act of voting carried deep emotional significance. Many voters recalled loved ones who were present during the previous election but are no longer with them, underscoring the human dimension of the electoral process.

Notably, close to two lakh voters had already exercised their franchise through home voting, showcasing efforts to make the process more inclusive and accessible.

Prominent personalities were among the early voters. Actor Mohanlal was seen waiting in line in the high-profile Nemom constituency. He was joined by candidates including State Education Minister V. Sivankutty and Congress leader K. S. Sabarinathan, who were observed exchanging greetings in a display of electoral camaraderie. BJP leader Rajeev Chandrasekhar is also contesting from the same seat.

Union Minister Suresh Gopi cast his vote early in Guruvayoor, while Leader of Opposition V. D. Satheesan voted with his family in Paravoor. BJP candidate R. Sreelekha, contesting from Vattiyoorkavu, also voted early, expressing confidence in her prospects.

The scale of the electoral exercise is massive. Authorities have set up auxiliary booths to manage voter turnout, along with 352 all-women polling stations and 37 booths operated by persons with disabilities, highlighting the emphasis on inclusivity. Additionally, 884 model polling stations have been established to enhance voter experience.

Security arrangements have been significantly strengthened, with over 76,000 personnel deployed, including central forces and units from neighbouring states. Approximately 2,500 polling stations have been identified as sensitive, with heightened surveillance and preventive measures in place.

Despite the official end of campaigning, candidates from all major fronts made last-minute efforts to reach out to voters, reflecting the high stakes and intense competition.

As polling progresses, Kerala’s electorate is once again demonstrating its strong democratic spirit, with the outcome expected to shape the state’s political landscape for the coming years.