The realty hubs of Noida Extension in Greater Noida and adjoining Noida sectors witnessed a clear urban-rural divide on issues with the turnout going up by a substantial 17%.
In Dadri, which includes Noida Extension and Greater Noida areas, the turnout went up to 57% from 42%.
Different aspirations came to the fore as land acquisition concerned voters in the rural belt while urban sectors voted for development and better law and order.
“I voted for a candidate who will ensure development. I want roads, footpaths, drains and cleanliness,” said Raj Khurana of Noida sector 52.
On the other hand, farmers said they want a party that could either get their land back or ensure compensation at market rates and create jobs for their children.
“The state government grabbed our land and created a concrete jungle,” said Girish Tyagi, 46, a farmer at village Roza Yakubpur in Noida Extension. About 20 other farmers like Tyagi, sitting at a chaupal, echoed similar sentiments.
About 30,000 farmers in about a dozen villages in Noida Extension have been affected in the land acquisition row. These areas registered a good voter turnout right from the morning.
“I do not think farmers have forgotten how the state government put them behind bars for protesting against land acquisition,” said Muntazir Hussain, a farmer of Shahberi village.