'13' becomes key number in Kerala polls

The number '13' seems to have a special significance in the poll schedule for electing the 13th Kerala Assembly for which voting is scheduled on April 13.

The number '13' seems to have a special significance in the poll schedule for electing the 13th Kerala Assembly for which voting is scheduled on April 13.

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The counting of votes is to be taken up on May 13, along with other states going to the polls.

The ruling LDF and opposition UDF leaders have welcomed the dates fixed by the Election Commission, though some considered the number to be unlucky.

The BJP has, however, expressed reservations on the polling date, but not on numerical considerations.

According to BJP leaders, people in Kerala celebrate 'Vishu' on April 14, their most important festival after 'Onam'. So many could find it difficult to reach polling booths on the eve of 'Vishu', which is traditionally celebrated as the Malayalam new year.

The party has written to the Election Commission seeking a change in the poll date.