New Delhi/Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala became the second-highest state in electoral gender ratio, with women making up 51.56% of the total electorate in the recently concluded Lok Sabha elections. Of the 14,336,133 female voters, women accounted for 52.09% of the votes cast in the state, demonstrating strong participation. 

Kerala’s electoral gender ratio significantly surpasses the national average of 946 female electors per 1,000 male electors, highlighting the state’s progressive and inclusive approach to voting, the Election Commission of India (ECI) stated in an official release on Friday. 

In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, female voter turnout in Kerala reached an impressive 71.86%, contributing substantially to the state’s overall turnout of 72.04%, both of which are well above the national average, the ECI added.

The ECI also noted that Kerala has excelled not only in gender inclusivity but also in representing marginalised communities, including third-gender electors. "With 367 registered third-gender voters, the state emphasises its commitment to nurturing a truly representative democracy," it said.

"Kerala’s success in voter inclusivity can be largely attributed to its targeted awareness initiatives, especially for women. The Systematic Voters' Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) campaigns were key in bridging gender gaps in voter turnout." The release further stated that these programmes empowered women, addressed voter apathy and encouraged participation across all sectors of society.