LATEST: As of 11 AM on April 9, 2026,...
As of 11 AM on April 9, 2026, approximately 33.28% of eligible voters in Kerala had cast their ballots across the state's 140 constituencies. Polling commenced at 7 AM and is slated to conclude at 6 PM. Early tallies show Kozhikode and Ernakulam districts registering higher participation rates.
LATEST: Electoral Landscape and Promises
The election marks a continued contest between the Left Democratic Front (LDF), primarily led by the CPI (M), and the United Democratic Front (UDF), fronted by the Congress. This year's campaign also sees the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) playing a more prominent role.
The UDF has put forth its "Indira guarantees," a platform promising free bus travel for women, monthly financial assistance of Rs 1,000 for women college students, an Oommen Chandy health insurance scheme, and startup loans for the youth. They also pledge an increase in welfare pensions to Rs 3,000.
JUST IN: The BJP has countered with its own set...
The BJP has countered with its own set of promises, including food security cards for Below Poverty Line families, an AIIMS campus, free LPG cylinders for the economically disadvantaged during Onam and Christmas, and also a hike in welfare pension to Rs 3,000.
LATEST: Voting Patterns and Notable Figures
Historical data from the 2021 and 2016 elections reveals consistent trends, with women voters generally outperforming men in turnout percentages across most districts.
FLASH: Background
Prominent political figures have begun casting their votes. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan voted in Dharmadom, Kannur. Congress MP KC Venugopal cast his vote in Thiruvampady, while State Health Minister Veena George did so in Pathanamthitta. Actor Mammootty and his wife also participated in the voting process. Congress leader Shama Mohammad cast her ballot in Kannur. BJP Palakkad candidate Shobha Surendran voted in Thrissur.
The campaigning period concluded on April 8, following a mandatory silence period after the 'kalashakottu' – the final campaign rallies held on April 7. The state's electorate of over 2.7 crore people will decide the fate of 140 assembly members. Voting centers have implemented measures, including "GenZ selfie booths," to encourage participation. The Kerala Governor, Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, cast his vote and urged citizens to exercise their democratic duty.
