Mon Dec 08 14:14:51 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:

Summary:

The first phase of local body elections in Kerala, India, covering 595 local bodies across seven districts, is scheduled for Tuesday, December 9, 2025 (votes will be polled from 7 am to 6 pm). Over 13.2 million voters are eligible to participate, choosing from over 36,000 candidates. The State Election Commission has outlined the acceptable identification documents for voting and the voting procedure. Unlike national elections, these local elections will not include a ‘NOTA’ option or VVPAT. Voters present at polling stations by 6 pm will be allowed to vote.

News Article:

Kerala Gears Up for Phase One of Local Body Elections

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, INDIA – December 8, 2025 – The first phase of Kerala’s local body elections will commence tomorrow, December 9th, across seven districts: Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Alappuzha, and Ernakulam. Polling will take place from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with voters in 595 local bodies participating.

Over 13.2 million registered voters are eligible to cast their ballots in this phase, including a significant number of women (7,032,444), men (6,251,219), and transgender individuals (126). The electorate also includes 456 overseas electors. A diverse field of 36,630 candidates, predominantly women (19,573), are vying for positions in the local bodies.

The State Election Commission has released a list of acceptable identification documents, including the Electors Photo Identity Card (EPIC), Aadhaar card, PAN card, and other government-issued photo IDs.

State Election Commissioner A. Shajahan has urged all voters to adhere to the outlined voting procedures to ensure a smooth and efficient election process. The commission has clarified that these local elections will differ from Assembly and Lok Sabha elections in that they will not offer a “None of the Above” (NOTA) option nor will they employ Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trails (VVPAT).

While polling stations will officially close at 6:00 PM, all voters present at the polling station at that time will be given the opportunity to cast their votes.

The results of this election will significantly impact local governance and development initiatives across the region. Citizens are encouraged to exercise their democratic right and participate in shaping the future of their communities.

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