Kerala Local Body Elections Spotlight: Key Voter Insights and Political Perspectives

In the Kerala local body elections, Congress leader Shama Mohamed urged voters to press EVM buttons carefully due to the absence of VVPAT machines. Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan highlighted political dynamics post-vote. A total of 1,199 local bodies are witnessing two-phase elections with a significant voter turnout.

Congress leader Shama Mohamed urged voters on Thursday to ensure their votes are counted accurately in the Kerala local body elections. Voting took place at Government UP School Muzhathadam in Kannur, where she expressed concern over the absence of VVPAT machines in panchayat elections, advising that voters keep the EVM button pressed until the audible confirmation.

Mohamed emphasized the importance of participating in the democratic process, saying, "It is crucial for our democracy and our country." Simultaneously, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan voted at Cherikkal Junior Basic School, dismissing concerns over the Sabarimala issue's impact, asserting party strength in traditional UDF areas.

Elections across 1,199 of Kerala's 1,200 local bodies are held over two phases, with the first phase seeing a 70.9% voter turnout. Prominent district participation included Ernakulam at 74.58%. The election spans major corporations and district panchayats, with final vote counting set for December 13.

(With inputs from agencies.)