Delhiites outdo Mumbaikaars in voting

Braving the scorching heat,over 50 per cent of the 1.1 crore electorate in the capital exercised their franchise.

When it comes to exercising franchise,Delhiites were more enthusiastic than Mumbaikaars. Braving the scorching heat,over 50 per cent of the 1.1 crore electorate in the capital exercised their franchise to see the leaders of their choice get entry to the Parliament.

Earlier Mumbai,which went to polls in the third phase of elections on April 30,witnessed a meagre 41.24 per cent polling,which was the lowest since 1977. It is viewed as a spontaneous response of the people to the 26/11 terrorist attack in the financial capital.

However,Delhiites did not follow the Mumbai way as they came in large numbers to participate in the polls. The 50.03 per cent polling marks an increase of nearly three per cent over the voters turn out in the last general elections in 2004.

The polling began on high note with many voters making a beeline at the polling stations to cast votes. However,as the day progressed there was slight slump in the turn out owning to extreme heat. But it again picked up towards the evening.

The city has been witnessing a severe heat spell for the last few days with the maximum temperature remaining over 40 degree Celsius. Today,the maximum was recorded at 38.5 degrees.

Leaders campaigning at the height of the summer were asking their supporters and workers to vote during the early hours of polling.

Fearing a low turnout,leaders had emphasised on door-to-door campaign and asked voters to come out in large numbers.