Thiruvananthapuram: Vote counting for the 2026 Kerala legislative assembly election began on Monday morning across the state, with early trends indicating a slight lead for the UDF. The initial rounds of counting have created a sense of anticipation, but officials and political observers say the final outcome is still far from certain.
Counting started at 8 am in centres spread across Kerala, where officials first opened and counted postal ballots before moving on to votes recorded in electronic voting machines. The process is taking place under tight security arrangements, with large numbers of police personnel deployed to maintain order and ensure transparency.
Kerala’s election is a contest among three major alliances. The ruling Left Democratic Front is seeking another term in office, while the United Democratic Front, led by the Congress party, is aiming to return to power. The National Democratic Alliance is also in the race, hoping to expand its presence in the state.
Early counting trends showed the UDF ahead in several constituencies, though only by a narrow margin. These leads are based on initial rounds and are often influenced by postal ballots, which can sometimes favour particular candidates or alliances. As more rounds of counting continue, the trends are expected to shift, making the contest highly unpredictable.
Election officials have urged the public and political parties to wait for official confirmations before drawing conclusions. They stressed that counting involves multiple rounds and that early leads do not always reflect the final result. The entire process is expected to continue throughout the day, with final results likely to be declared later.
Before the counting began, leaders from both major fronts had expressed confidence in their chances. UDF leaders gathered in the state capital, hopeful of a strong performance, while LDF leaders maintained that they would retain power despite exit poll predictions. The NDA also expressed optimism, saying it expected to improve its standing in the assembly.
Exit polls released earlier had suggested a close contest, with some indicating a slight advantage for the UDF. However, Kerala’s political history has shown that voter behaviour can be complex, and outcomes can differ from predictions.
Across the state, party workers and supporters gathered outside counting centres and at party offices, closely following updates as they came in. Television channels and digital platforms are providing continuous coverage, adding to the tense atmosphere.
The election is crucial for Kerala’s political future, as it will determine the direction of governance for the next five years. Issues such as economic development, employment, welfare schemes, and infrastructure have been central to the campaign.
As counting continues, all eyes remain on the evolving trends. While the UDF has taken an early lead, the race is still open, and the final verdict will only be clear once all votes are counted.