Jubilee Hills by-election sees disappointing voter turnout of just over 47 per cent

Polling in the Jubilee Hills by-election concluded with a modest turnout of 47.16 per cent on Tuesday. The new colour-coded ballot papers introduced for the first time drew positive feedback from voters for making the polling process clearer and easier

Hyderabad: The Jubilee Hills by-poll witnessed a voter turnout that was once again not impressive. On Tuesday, polling was held in 407 polling stations amid tight security, with the turnout recorded at 47.16 per cent till 5 pm.

The voter turnout remained low right from when polling began at 7 am. This slow trend continued up to 10 am. By 9 am, the recorded turnout was 9.2 per cent. By 11 am, there was a slight increase as students and young office-goers cast their votes. Voters in residential colonies such as Vengal Rao Nagar, Madhura Nagar, Kalayn Nagar, Yousufguda, Mothi Nagar, Shaikpet and Borabanda areas actively took part in the polling.

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In the afternoon, voters queued at polling stations, with the turnout rising to 31.94 per cent. A steady increase was observed, and by 3 pm, 40.20 per cent was recorded. This rose to 47.16 per cent by 5 pm, after a gap of two hours during which little change was seen.

Party candidates, alarmed by the poor initial response and sensing a risk of defeat, mobilised voters through their party leaders.

Colour ballot papers impress voters

Colour ballot papers impressed voters, with many expressing satisfaction over the new system introduced at polling stations for the first time in the Jubilee Hills by-poll. Voters said the new method made the polling process more transparent and reduced confusion.

Several voters, including first-timers, told Telangana Today, “The colour-coded ballot papers helped us easily identify our preferred candidates and parties. The initiative was widely appreciated, with many suggesting it should continue in future elections. This approach simplifies the voting process and ensures that voters can easily identify their preferred candidates.”