Nilambur, June 20:
Braving heavy rain and adverse weather, voters turned out in large numbers for the Nilambur Assembly by-election, recording an impressive 73.26% polling—close to the 76.60% turnout seen in the 2021 Assembly election. This strong voter participation followed an intense and high-decibel campaign from all political fronts.Historically, Nilambur has crossed the 80% voter turnout mark only three times in its 16 past elections, with the highest being 83.15% in 1987. Interestingly, despite varying local governance across panchayats, voter enthusiasm remained high. Areas under LDF control—Nilambur Municipality, Pothukallu, and Amarambalam panchayats—reported strong turnout, boosting the Left’s hopes. In contrast, the UDF continues to retain strength in Vazhikkadavu, Chungathara, Edakkara, Moothadam, and Karulai panchayats.The Congress exudes confidence, asserting there was no significant erosion of its vote base. While some internal assessments admit a possible shift of discontented Aryadan Shoukath supporters toward independent candidate Anwar, the UDF believes it won't significantly impact the overall result. The LDF, too, is optimistic about replicating its 2021 victory, claiming to have consolidated its core support base. However, reports within the CPI(M) suggest that a segment of votes might have swung to Anwar.Anwar himself claims he will secure 75,000 votes. Meanwhile, the BJP-led NDA is projecting a modest tally between 12,000 and 15,000 votes. Notably, Nilambur’s turnout outshines the 61.46% polling witnessed in the recent Wayanad Lok Sabha bypoll where Priyanka Gandhi was a candidate.With a high turnout and a fiercely competitive race, the Nilambur bypoll has left both major fronts with a mix of anticipation and anxiety.