Polling for the Umreth Assembly by-election in Gujarat’s Anand district continued amidst high temperatures, with a voter turnout of 54.43% by 5 p.m., as reported by the Election Commission of India. The voting process began at 7 a.m. across 306 polling stations in the constituency, covering 46 villages in Umreth taluka and parts of the Anand rural area, along with Ode, Umreth, and Boriavi municipalities. A total of 2,45,623 voters are eligible to participate in the election, contested by six candidates.
Counting of votes is scheduled for May 4. The election has been managed with extensive administrative and security measures, involving approximately 1,348 polling personnel, 22 micro observers, and 19 district-level nodal officers, totaling nearly 1,500 individuals. Security arrangements include two Deputy Superintendents of Police, four Police Inspectors, around 500 police and home guard personnel, and three companies of the Central Reserve Police Force to ensure a peaceful voting environment.
The electorate comprises 4,174 first-time voters aged 18-19, 1,556 voters above 85 years, and 1,546 persons with disabilities. Special provisions have been made for participation, such as 218 wheelchairs, 361 volunteers, and six vehicles for senior citizens and persons with disabilities. Some voters from these groups have already cast their votes through home voting arrangements conducted before polling day.
To address the heat conditions, facilities like drinking water, Oral Rehydration Solution packets, and shaded waiting areas have been provided at polling stations. Voters can use any of the 12 approved documents for identification, including Aadhaar card, passport, driving licence, and voter identity card. Non-resident Indian electors must present their original passport at the polling stations for identification.
Bharatiya Janata Party candidate Harshad Parmar expressed confidence in winning, emphasizing the democratic significance of the election. He mentioned visiting various areas to connect with people and garner their support, attributing the campaign’s success to the collective efforts and blessings received from the public.
