By Web Desk
Wayanad/Chelakkara: The voting percentages in Wayanad Lok Sabha and Chelakkara Assembly constituencies have left many surprised as polling patterns in both areas deviated significantly from expectations. The change in voter behavior appears to be the key factor behind these outcomes. While Wayanad saw a sharp decline in voting percentage this time, Chelakkara recorded a significantly higher turnout. In Chelakkara, long queues of voters were seen at several polling stations, even after the scheduled voting time had ended. Meanwhile, technical issues also impacted the polling process.
In Wayanad, the lower turnout that started in the morning continued into the evening. By 6:00 PM, when the polling time officially ended, there was no significant rush at polling stations in Wayanad. According to the Election Commission’s final count at 6:40 PM, the voter turnout in Wayanad stood at 64.53%.
On the other hand, Chelakkara saw a record increase in voter turnout. By 6:40 PM, the turnout in Chelakkara had reached 72.42%. The number of votes cast in Chelakkara surpassed the numbers seen in the 2021 Legislative Assembly elections, setting a new record. In the 2021 Assembly elections, 153,673 votes were cast. However, by 6:30 PM today, the number of votes cast in Chelakkara had risen to 154,356. This marked an increase in voting turnout compared to the last assembly elections, which is a significant achievement for the area.
Both political fronts are hopeful of a strong outcome in Chelakkara, given the impressive voter turnout. In Wayanad, there was an issue with the VVPAT machine at the polling booth in Sultan Bathery’s Vakery H.S. around 5:30 PM, but the problem was quickly resolved, and voting continued without further delay.
