'Every vote matters': PM Modi appeals for large turnout as polling begins in Kerala, Assam, Puducherry

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday urged voters in Kerala, Assam and Puducherry to turn out in large numbers as polling got underway in the three states.In a post on X, PM Modi emphasised the importance of strong participation in Kerala, calling on voters—especially youth and women—to take part actively in the democratic process."Record participation will add vigour to Keralam’s democratic spirit. I particularly request the youth and women of the state to step forward and vote in large numbers," he said. Polling in Kerala will see over 2.6 crore electors deciding the fate of 883 candidates across 140 constituencies. The contest is primarily among the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF), the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF), and the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA).PM Modi also appealed to voters in Puducherry to participate enthusiastically."As the Puducherry Assembly elections commence, I urge every voter to come out and participate in record numbers. I especially appeal to our youth and to women voters to strengthen the process of democracy. Every vote matters in shaping the future of Puducherry," he said.The Union Territory has over 10.14 lakh eligible voters who will elect representatives to its 30-member Assembly.In Assam, the Prime Minister called on citizens to exercise their franchise in large numbers, expressing hope that the elections would be marked by high participation."As polling begins for the Assam Assembly elections 2026, I appeal to the people of Assam to exercise their franchise in large numbers. I hope that the state’s youth and women voters participate enthusiastically and make this election a celebration of democracy and public duty," he said. More than 2.5 crore voters in Assam are eligible to cast their ballots for the 126-member assembly, with 722 candidates in the fray.