LIVE UPDATES: Assam, Kerala, Puducherry Assembly Elections Begin; PM Modi Urges Voters to Vote

The assembly elections are underway in three key states—Assam, Kerala, and Puducherry—as voters turn out to decide the next government. In Assam, 126 constituencies are witnessing a contest among 722 candidates, with Chief Minister Hemanta Biswa Sarma seeking to retain power. Early morning queues in key areas, including Guwahati, show strong participation from both men and women, reflecting high public engagement in this democratic exercise. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged citizens across all three states to exercise their voting rights, emphasizing the importance of democratic participation. Voters have highlighted development, infrastructure, electricity, and water supply as key issues influencing their choices. Citizens lining up at polling booths demonstrated enthusiasm and hope for progress, with many casting their votes to strengthen governance and accountability. In Kerala, the contest remains a fierce battle primarily between the Left Democratic Front (LDF) and United Democratic Front (UDF), while the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) aims to expand its influence. In Puducherry, candidates are vying for voter support in a multi-cornered fight. Across all states, elections are shaping up as a test of leadership, governance, and development promises. These elections mark a crucial moment for regional politics, with citizens actively participating to decide the direction of governance. The high voter turnout early in the day underscores the vibrancy of democracy in India.