A significant number of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) from Kerala, primarily based in Gulf nations, are flocking back home to participate in Friday’s Lok Sabha elections in the state. Over 22,000 NRIs have already arrived in Kerala over the past two days to exercise their voting rights in the crucial general elections.
Registered NRI Voters
Kerala has a total of 89,839 registered NRI voters, as per the final voter list released by the state’s Chief Electoral Officer. To facilitate their return, around 12 chartered flights have been arranged, with the last flight scheduled to depart from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Thursday.
Collaboration with Political Parties
Various expatriate organizations affiliated with political parties in Kerala, such as the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) and Congress, have teamed up with travel agencies to organize affordable flight tickets for the NRI voters. Notable organizations involved include the Kerala Muslim Cultural Centre, Priyadarshini Congress, and the Qatar-based INCAS.
Financial Responsibility
While arrangements for travel are being made, NRIs are responsible for covering the cost of their flight tickets. Despite this, the influx of NRIs returning to vote, often referred to as “vote flights,” has seen a significant surge compared to previous elections.
High Participation in Vatakara
The Vatakara constituency, known for its large number of overseas voters, has witnessed a particularly high turnout, with over 22,000 NRIs returning to participate in the electoral process. This number is expected to rise further by Thursday, contributing to one of the most closely contested elections in Kerala.
UDF Candidate’s Appeal
Shafi Parambil, the UDF candidate from Vatakara, has urged eligible voters to prioritize casting their votes over other commitments. He has also requested families planning to visit their relatives abroad to postpone their trips until after April 26 to ensure their presence for voting.
Tough Contest in Vatakara
The Vatakara constituency is poised for a tough battle, with Shafi Parambil of the UDF facing off against CPI(M)’s KK Shailaja. Notably, this election marks the first time in Kerala’s history that two sitting MLAs are contesting against each other for the Lok Sabha seats.
Other Districts
Apart from Vatakara, a significant number of NRIs are also returning to constituencies in Kannur, Kozhikode, Palakkad, and Wayanad districts to exercise their electoral rights.
