Japan K Pathak, Ahmedabad: A clear pattern has emerged in the Amdavad Municipal Corporation (AMC) elections, with ward-wise voter turnout data released by the State Election Commission a day after polling.

Out of 48 wards, only nine recorded voter turnout above 60%, and all of them have a significant Muslim population.

The highest turnout of 70.43% was reported in Gomtipur, where a former Congress corporator had joined Asaduddin Owaisi-led AIMIM and contested on its ticket. Other predominantly Muslim-populated areas such as Shahpur, Dariyapur, Jamalpur, and Maktampura (Juhapura) also registered turnout exceeding 60%.

At the same time, mixed-population areas including Khadia, Baherampura, Danilimda, and Lambha also crossed the 60% mark.

One of the key factors behind the higher turnout appears to be direct electoral contests between BJP’s Hindu candidates and Muslim candidates from opposition parties. Additionally, competition among multiple Muslim candidates fielded by Congress, AIMIM, AAP, and, in some pockets, SDPI, is believed to have driven greater voter participation. Concerns over a potential split in votes may have encouraged more voters to turn out.

Meanwhile, BJP candidates also intensified efforts to consolidate their support base and maximize voter turnout in view of possibilities of division in Muslim vote.

Counting of votes is scheduled for April 28. DeshGujarat

Ward-wise turnout:

• Shahpur – 62.07%
• Dariyapur – 66.18%
• Khadia – 63.61%
• Jamalpur – 63.34%
• Maktampura – 65.09%
• Baherampura – 67.95%
• Danilimda – 65.06%
• Gomtipur – 70.43%
• Lambha – 61.36%
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