Panaji: Voters in Pernem were left disappointed when promised refreshment drinks were not available at the polling booths initially. Despite assurances from officials that lemonade, soft drinks, cold water, and medical facilities would be provided to prevent heatstroke, voters found themselves thirsty and without refreshments.
After complaints were raised, officials eventually brought limited stock, but it was insufficient for the roughly 1000 voters across two booths. This left many voters feeling let down.
Earlier, Chief Electoral Officer Ramesh Verma had previously expressed optimism about a high voter turnout exceeding 80%, but on the ground, the reality fell short of expectations.
