Kerala: Prominent political leaders, candidates and public figures queued up early at polling stations as voting began across Kerala on Thursday, signalling strong momentum in the Kerala Assembly elections 2026.
More than 2.71 crore voters are eligible to cast their ballots in what is widely seen as a decisive contest to elect a new government in the state.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan arrived at a polling booth in Kannur district with his family at around 8 am and described the election as crucial for the state's development trajectory.
Calling the vote "decisive", Vijayan said the outcome would determine whether Kerala continues on its development path. He highlighted the LDF government's development record, low corruption levels and welfare initiatives as key factors influencing voters.
"People want development to continue without disruption. The last 10 years have seen significant progress under the LDF, and voters believe only the Left can take Kerala forward," he said, dismissing attempts to spread misinformation during the campaign.
Vijayan also expressed confidence that the ruling Left Democratic Front would secure a stronger mandate, citing support across communities and districts. He added that communal politics and cash-for-votes allegations would not influence Kerala's electorate.
Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan cast his vote along with his family and urged maximum voter participation, calling it essential for strengthening democracy.
Projecting confidence in the opposition's prospects, Satheesan said the United Democratic Front was on track for a decisive win, predicting over 100 seats. He pointed to a "strong wave for change" following his statewide outreach campaign.
Union Minister Suresh Gopi reached a polling booth in Guruvayoor early and stood in line before casting his vote, expressing optimism about a political shift in the state.
BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar said the party is seeking a mandate for development-focused governance. He asserted that the BJP aims to emerge as a significant political force in Kerala, positioning itself beyond the traditional LDF-UDF rivalry.
Actor Mohanlal also participated in the voting process in Thiruvananthapuram, later urging citizens to exercise their democratic right.
Senior leaders, including P K Kunhalikutty, Sayyid Sadikali Shihab Thangal and Sunny Joseph, cast their votes across Malappuram and Kannur districts, expressing confidence in their respective parties' performance.
Meanwhile, NSS general secretary G Sukumaran Nair called on voters to make a decisive choice, while NDA candidate George Kurian also exercised his franchise.
In a notable contest, CPM rebel G Sudhakaran, contesting with UDF backing, expressed optimism after witnessing long queues at polling stations.
Kerala Congress (M) leader Jose K Mani marked the day by offering prayers at his father's tomb in Pala before polling began.
With high voter turnout expected and all major alliances expressing confidence, the Kerala elections 2026 are poised to deliver a closely watched verdict on governance, development and political direction in the state.
PTI