The air buzzes with electoral fervor in Puducherry as queues form across 1,099 booths for the 30-member legislative assembly polls. From 7 AM to 6 PM, citizens exercise their franchise in this high-stakes union territory showdown.
Ex-CM V. Narayanasamy, a key INDIA figure, queued up patiently before voting. ‘Voting is every citizen’s duty,’ he reminded, adding optimistically, ‘Conditions are highly conducive for the INDIA bloc here.’ His words spotlight the brewing challenge to N. Rangasamy’s AINRC-BJP coalition, in power since 2021.
Rival parties lock horns for dominance. Authorities, led by CEO P. Jawahar, have orchestrated airtight arrangements for impartial voting. Collector A. Kuluthungan marveled at early crowds: ‘Thrilling to see such enthusiasm; all mock polls succeeded flawlessly.’
A formidable security blanket—4,836 staff including police and 30 CAPF units—ensures order. Heightened measures cover 209 sensitive and 5 hyper-sensitive booths, patrolled by CAPF and observers. About 2,000 volunteers assist the elderly and differently-abled, fostering broad participation.
Model Code violations faced crackdowns: ₹84 crore in seized assets, from ₹67 crore gold to cash and booze, even post-campaign. With 2021’s over 82% polling, expectations soar for record turnout, reflecting deep public stake in Puducherry’s political future.
