Odisha Sees 49.77% Voter Turnout Amid Reports of Clashes and Heatstroke Deaths

Odisha recorded a 49.77% voter turnout by 3 pm in six Lok Sabha constituencies and 42 assembly segments, despite instances of heatstroke fatalities and clashes. The Chief Electoral Officer noted that the election was largely peaceful, with some resolved EVM issues. Key candidates include Odisha Assembly Speaker Pramila Mallik and others.

Odisha registered a substantial 49.77% voter turnout by 3 pm on Saturday in six Lok Sabha constituencies and 42 assembly segments, officials reported. Voting commenced at 7 am across regions including Mayurbhanj, Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kendrapara, and Jagatsinghpur.

The simultaneous Lok Sabha and Assembly elections saw peaceful proceedings according to Chief Electoral Officer N B Dhal, despite some electronic voting machine (EVM) glitches which were largely resolved. Tragically, two individuals died due to suspected heatstroke while exercising their franchise.

Additionally, minor clashes were reported outside polling booths in Gop and Salipur areas. BJP candidate Arindam Ray raised concerns about alleged rigging by BJD workers. Notable figures in this electoral phase include Odisha Assembly Speaker Pramila Mallik and several current ministers.