Electorate Reduction Following SIR Results Spurs Increased Turnout; Votes Remain Consistent Compared to 2021 Election

As of 8 p.m. on polling day, the Election Commission of India (ECI) reported a voter turnout of 83.41%. This figure marks a notable increase from the 59.75% turnout observed during the 2021 Assembly elections. One contributing factor to this increase is the reduction in the electorate, which has decreased from 40.57 lakh in 2021 to 28.93 lakh in the 2026 elections. Despite this decrease in the total number of eligible voters, the actual number of individuals who cast their votes in both elections remains relatively consistent, with approximately 24 lakh voters participating in each. The higher turnout may reflect increased voter engagement and interest in the electoral process this year. The results of the polls and analysis of voter behavior are expected to emerge in the coming days.