Mapusa: Contrary to expectations, the turnout of voters in Bardez taluka, which consists of seven assembly constituencies of Tivim, Mapusa, Siolim, Saligao, Calangute, Aldona and Porvorim, was quite good.

Siolim saw 75.66% voters exercising their franchise while Tivim recorded 75% voting followed by Mapusa with 74%. The lowest was clocked by Porvorim – 72.75 %. In Calangute, there was 73.92% voting, Saligao 73.5% and Aldona 73%, according to figures released by the Election Commission of India.

Both the camps – BJP and Congress view the polling to have happened in their favour. However, analysts say that it was difficult to read which side the wind was blowing.

While BJP MLAs were given targets in Bardez where the party has more MLAs and Congress just one (Aldona), the situation was not clear.

Analysts however say that silent voters are a big factor. The main contest is between BJP’s five-time MP and Union minister Shripad Naik, who is seeking a record sixth term, and former union minister Ramakant Khalap of the Congress. With RGP’s Manoj Parab, it will be a triangular contest.

Bardez has been a stronghold for BJP and if the trend continues then again the taluka is likely to continue with saffron. However, this time voters preferred to be silent which can make a difference in margin of winning candidate.

Till 9 am, Porvorim witnessed highest voting in taluka which was around 14.69%, which was followed by Calangute 13.98%, Aldona, Mapusa, Siolim and Saligao witnessed 13% turnout and lowest of 12% was seen in the Tivim constituency. However till noon, voting turnout was around 28%. post lunch voting turnout crossed 50% per cent mark.