The counting of ballots in the much-anticipated 2026 Kerala Assembly elections commenced on Monday, revealing early trends that indicate a robust lead for the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF). As of 10:25 AM, the UDF was reported to be ahead in 82 out of 140 seats, while the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) managed to secure leads in 45 seats, according to the Election Commission’s preliminary data.

The counting process kicked off at 8 AM, with the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) trailing with leads in only three seats. To achieve a majority in the Assembly, a coalition needs to secure at least 71 seats. Voter turnout was impressive, with a reported 79.6% participation during the elections held on April 9, where more than 880 candidates contested for positions in the state legislature.

The UDF, historically a strong player in Kerala politics, faces significant challenges as it looks to reclaim power from the LDF, which is striving for a rare third consecutive term. The LDF, led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, had previously broken a long-standing trend in 2021 by winning 99 seats, marking a notable shift in the state’s political landscape. In contrast, the UDF had settled for only 41 seats in the same election.

This election has unfolded amid a backdrop of extensive electoral roll revisions across 12 states and Union Territories, including Kerala, by the Election Commission. The revision process saw the removal of over 800,000 voters from the rolls, a decisive move that aimed to ensure a fair and transparent electoral process.

Initial exit polls had suggested a favorable outcome for the UDF, sparking hopes among its supporters for a return to governance. As the counting continues, the political landscape in Kerala appears to be on the brink of transformation, with significant implications for both regional and national politics.