Counting begins at 8am as rival fronts brace for verdict

Thiruvananthapuram: Counting of votes for all 140 assembly constituencies in the state will begin at 8 am on Monday across 43 locations, chief electoral officer Rathan U Kelkar said on Sunday.The state's voter turnout for the April 9 polls has tentatively risen to 79.70% after including service voters' postal ballots. Of the 53,984 postal ballots issued to service voters, 20,028 were received as of May 1. Service voters can submit ballots till before counting begins, and postal authorities have been directed to promptly hand over all ballots, including those received on holidays.The rival political fronts struck contrasting notes ahead of the results, with each expressing confidence of victory. While LDF leaders dismissed the exit polls and asserted that the front was headed for a historic third consecutive term in power, UDF workers went a step further, preparing for celebrations across the state. The NDA, too, projected gains, claiming a significant improvement in its performance.As per Election Commission guidelines, postal ballots will be counted first, followed by EVM votes after a 30-minute interval. Round-wise trends will be updated in real time on the EC's mobile app and official results portal. The final results are expected by around 5 pm. The final turnout figure will be announced only after the election commission releases its official index card, usually 48 hours after counting, Kelkar said.A total of 15,465 officials have been deployed for counting, while 32,301 police personnel, including 20 companies of Central Armed Police Forces, will handle security. All personnel are required to carry QR code-based identity cards.District administrations have been advised to restrict victory celebrations if there is a risk of law and order issues. The model code of conduct will remain in force till May 6 or until formally withdrawn.Kelkar warned of strict action against those spreading fake results and urged the public to avoid crowding at counting centres. Each constituency will have a dedicated counting observer, mostly senior IAS officers, to ensure transparency. Officials and security staff have undergone detailed training, with strict instructions to avoid haste.The process will conclude only after all doubts are resolved, Kelkar said. Media will not be allowed to film the opening of strong rooms.