Women and estate workers show their voting might
Women voters came out in full force at many polling stations in the Central Province while there was also a significant turnout among the elderly population and differently-abled voters.
In addition, there was a high turnout among estate workers, especially from Madulkale, Rangala, Hunnasgiriya, Udadumbara with a general pattern of high interest exhibited in the estate sector.
Long lines of voters were seen in the Kandy District, and work at the polling stations were largely peaceful. The average voter turnout in the District exceeded 55 per cent by noon.
There were no reports of major violations, but two police officers were suspended from duties due to their failure to show up at the assigned polling station. Mobile police services and police stations were on high alert in the district.
The Nuwara Eliya District reported a voting percentage of 65 by noon, although when voting started in the morning certain polling stations recorded only 30 voters. However, the numbers were high towards afternoon with the presence of a large number of estate workers.
Four persons were arrested for distributing polling cards to people when voting commenced. Another incident was reported in Mahagasthota, Nuwara Eliya where two groups had clashed. It was reported that they had been under the influence of liquor and three of the suspects were admitted to hospital.
Meanwhile, in the Matale District there was a turnout of 40 per cent. There were no reports of violence from the District at the time of going to press.