UDF leading in Kerala, LDF in seven places, NDA in T’puram

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The United Democratic Front (UDF) is leading in Kerala as counting of votes for the country's much-awaited Lok Sabha elections begins. When the first lead came out, the LDF is leading in seven places and the NDA in one place, while the UDF was much ahead. Reports said postal votes are now being counted.

The LDF is leading in Attingal, Kollam, Mavelikkara, Chalakudy, Alathur, Palakkad and Kasaragod. Rahul Gandhi, Hibi Eden and others are leading. Rahul Gandhi's lead is three digits. NDA candidate Rajeev Chandrasekhar is leading in Thiruvananthapuram.

An indication of where the country is heading will be available after an hour of counting. The picture will be clear in the afternoon and will know who will lead the country.

The counting of votes started at 8 am in 20 centres in the state. The counting of votes is likely to be completed by 2 pm. The officials arrived at 4 am for the preliminary preparations for the counting of votes. The officials took the EVM machines out of the strong rooms at 7.30 am.

The final result will be announced only after counting the VVPAT in the selected five booths in each constituency. It will take an hour. Hence, the declaration of the final result will be delayed.

The counting of postal votes started at 8 am.