New Delhi/UNI: Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Wednesday appealed to exercise their franchise as much as possible as the voting for the first phase of Assembly elections is underway in Gujarat.

Taking to twitter, he wrote, "I appeal to the people of Gujarat to make this festival of democracy a success by voting as much as possible."

"People of Gujarat are united for change (parivartan)," he said.

Former Congress president Rahul Gandhi also took to twitter and appealed to people to vote in large numbers.

"For the progressive future of Gujarat, vote in large numbers and make this festival of democracy a success," he said.

The voting for the 89 Assembly seats began at 8 am and will continue till 5:30 pm.

The second phase of elections in 93 seats will take place on December 5.

The counting of votes will be held on December 8.