GUWAHATI, April 9: Polling for the single-phase election to 126 Assam Legislative Assembly constituencies was conducted peacefully across the state on Thursday, official sources informed.
According to reports received from all districts, the overall voter turnout of 85.51 percent was recorded at 8pm, surpassing the elector turnout of 82.04 per cent in the 2021 Assembly elections.
The two-hourly trends were encouraging, from 17.87 percent at 9 am; 38.92 percent at 11am; 59.63 percent at 1pm; 75.91 percent at 3pm and to an overall turnout of 84.42 percent at 5pm.
The polling process witnessed enthusiastic participation from voters across the state exercising their democratic right. Despite overcast weather and rain in some constituencies, the enthusiasm of the voters remained undiminished since morning.
Long queues were observed at several polling stations during the closing hours and the final voter turnout figure will be ascertained after the completion of polling in all locations on Friday.
The Election Commission had put in place elaborate arrangements at all polling stations to ensure a free, fair and inclusive election.
Adequate security measures were deployed to maintain law and order, while special facilitation was extended to senior citizens, persons with disabilities and other voters to ensure ease of voting.
Assam chief electoral officer Anurag Goel expressed sincere gratitude to all citizens of the state for their active participation and cooperation, which contributed significantly to the successful conduct of polling.
“The presence of a large number of people at designated locations even after 5pm reflects the people’s awareness and enthusiasm towards voting,” the CEO said.
He further acknowledged the dedicated efforts of polling personnel, security forces and all stakeholders who worked tirelessly to ensure the smooth and peaceful completion of the poll.
Notably, voters from all walks of life stepped out to exercise their franchise during the elections, strengthening the voice of the people and the spirit of democracy.
Many were encouraged by the citizen-friendly facilities at the booths, particularly at the model polling stations and the reception received there during voting.
A sizeable number of first-time voters were also seen at the polling centres from morning till evening.
