New Delhi/UNI: Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Thursday appealed to the people to exercise their franchise as the voting for the 60-seat Tripura Assembly is underway.

Taking to Twitter, the Congress chief wrote, "People of Tripura are united for change. Sincerely urge everyone, especially the youth to come out and participate in the festival of Democracy and vote for peace and progress. Vote, without fear."

The voting began at 7 am at 3,328 polling stations spread across 60 constituencies.

A total electorate of around 28.13 lakhs including 13.98 women are eligible to exercise their franchise and decide the fate of 259 candidates.

Among the 259 candidates include Chief Minister Manik Saha and Union Minister Pratima Bhoumik.

The counting of the votes will take place on March 2.