Polling peaceful in Karaikal amid heavy turnout

Karaikal's Assembly polling saw an impressive 86.12% turnout, with peaceful voting and special provisions for all voters.

A long queue was a common sight at a community hall in Thirunagar in the Karaikal North Constituency on Thursday. | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Polling for the five Assembly constituencies in Karaikal district of Puducherry was peaceful on Thursday, recording an overall turnout of 86.12% as per the preliminary figures.

The constituency-wise voter turnout stood at 86.12% in Karaikal North, 82.98% in Karaikal South, 87.45% in Nedungadu (SC), 87.14% in Neravy–T.R. Pattinam and 87.78% in Thirunallar. A total of 1,56,250 voters were eligible to vote across the five constituencies, where 41 candidates were in the fray.

Polling began at 7 a.m. across 181 booths, amid tight security at 36 sensitive stations. All booths were monitored through webcast, and EVMs, control units, and VVPATs were despatched in advance. Mock polling was conducted at 5.30 a.m. in the presence of polling agents before voting commenced.

Voters turned out in large numbers since early morning, forming queues at several centres. Ramps, wheelchairs, and other facilities were arranged for senior citizens and persons with disabilities. Special booths included an all-women “pink booth” at Avvaiyar Women’s College, a booth managed by persons with disabilities and a youth-managed booth. Drinking water and mobile phone deposit counters were provided.

Most shops and eateries remained closed across the district while private transport services operated minimally. Schools and colleges had a holiday. Elaborate security arrangements were in place, with local police and paramilitary personnel standing guard at polling stations.