Quick Read
- Counting began at 8 am today across all 140 constituencies in Kerala following the April 9 polling.
- Exit polls indicate a razor-thin contest between the ruling LDF and the opposition UDF, with no clear winner projected.
- The final results for the 880 candidates are expected by the evening as counting proceeds through multiple verified rounds.
NEW DELHI (Azat TV) – The Election Commission of India has officially commenced the counting of votes for the 2026 Kerala Assembly elections, marking the start of a critical day that will determine the political future of the state. As of 8 a.m. today, May 4, officials began tabulating ballots from all 140 constituencies following the April 9 polling, which saw a voter turnout of 79.6 percent.
The Stakes of the 2026 Kerala Assembly Contest
The current counting process is closely monitored, with over 880 candidates awaiting the final verdict. The election represents a pivotal test for the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF), led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, which is vying for a third consecutive term. Standing in opposition is the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF), which is seeking to reclaim power in what exit polls have characterized as one of the most unpredictable races in recent state history.
Exit Poll Projections and Political Uncertainty
According to The Sunday Guardian, while exit polls are not definitive, they have consistently pointed toward a razor-thin margin between the two major alliances. Most projections place the UDF in a slight lead, estimating between 70 and 75 seats, while the LDF is projected to secure between 60 and 65 seats. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance is also looking to expand its footprint in the state, though analysts remain skeptical of significant gains beyond a handful of seats.
How to Follow Live Kerala Election Results
The Election Commission is conducting the count in a multi-round process, with postal ballots processed first, followed by Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). Real-time updates are available through the official Election Commission of India website and various digital news platforms. As The Times of India reports, voters and stakeholders should expect early trends to emerge throughout the morning, with the final results for all constituencies anticipated by this evening.
The heightened anticipation surrounding this year’s result stems from the potential for a shift in governance; should the UDF succeed, it would end a historic two-term streak for the LDF, fundamentally altering the political landscape of Southern India.