The third round of India's general voting has seen an estimated 50% turnout, continuing its steady decline after falling to 55% in the second phase from 57% in the first.

The third phase, concluded on Thursday, saw India's two main parties, the ruling Congress and the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), go head to head in a number of key states which will have a major bearing on the national outcome.

The five-stage national Indian ballot is widely expected to result in a shaky coalition government that will have to steer the country through an economic slump.

The month-long ballot -- the world's largest democratic exercise -- wraps up on May 13, with the final results expected three days later.

In India's financial and entertainment capital of Mumbai many middle-class voters accounted fury over the terrorist attacks in November for their high turnout in the vote.

"I would have never voted if it hadn't been for 11/26. I think it's shaken all of us and the performance by our MPs has been dismal." said Devang Vyas, a 39-year-old manager. "I'm voting for change."

Kashmiris meanwhile defied a boycott call by separatists who do not want New Delhi reinforce Indian rule in the Muslim-majority region.

"I am voting for development. Separatists need to de-link elections from the struggle for freedom," said Kashmir businessman Iqbal Dar, 49, who cast his ballot said.

MP/MMN