Lukewarm response in Karmanghat

• Party activists not seen distributing voter slips which could be a reason for low voter turnout

• At one time there were more polling staff than the voters

Karmanghat: The polling booths in Karmanghat wore a deserted look for most part of the day as people gave the elections a miss. "Polling percentage has decreased in MP elections when compared to MLA elections. Party activists usually distribute slips which did not happen this time. This could a reason for low voter turnout," said Chitram Sai Ashwin, polling agent at booth number 474.

"I am feeling happy to cast my vote for the first time. It is an indication that I am a perfect citizen and I can elect my leader. The facilities are good, and everything is under control," says Kandukuri Bhanu Prasad, B-tech student.

"I am a resident of Altaf Nagar Colony, but I didn't find my vote here. Polling agents told me that I am having my vote in other polling booth. Previously they used to give us slips before the polling date. This time we didn't receive any which is creating a lot of confusion, says B Lakshmayya, agricultural labour.

"I came in the morning hours and was surprised to find more polling agents than voters," says Babburi Srinivas Gowd, Tirumala Ambulance Service. "I am voting for the first time, I faced a bit of confusion in the polling booth that they said my vote is not there and while I asked them to check properly, they apologised and gave my slip," said Challa Manasa, B Tech Student.