Lowest turnout in a decade

Gujarat, renowned for its high political engagement, recorded its lowest voter turnout of 59.61 per cent in recent years, according to data released by the Election Commission of India (ECI).

The decline triggered intense speculation among political analysts regarding the underlying causes and potential ramifications, particularly for the ruling BJP. This figure represented a significant decline from the 64.51 per cent turnout recorded in 2019 and the 63.66 per cent recorded in 2014.

Political analysts attributed the unprecedented dip in voter participation to antiincumbency sentiments, exacerbated by local grievances and disenchantment, looming large. The state's scorching heatwave likely deterred many from venturing out to polling stations, compounding the challenge of voter mobilisation.