WB records 92% turnout, TN 85% in Phase-I
Sporadic incidents of violence KOLKATA/CHENNAI, Apr 23: West Bengal registered a record voter turnout of 92.72 per cent in the first phase of assembly polls today amid sporadic incidents of violence, while Tamil Nadu recorded unprecedented voting of 85.14 per cent as the BJP pushed to unseat Mamata Banerjee in Bengal and expand in the South. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp In the first phase, 152 constituencies in West Bengal went to polls, while voting for the 234-member [] The post WB records 92% turnout, TN 85% in Phase-I appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Stray incidents of violence break out across Tamil Nadu on election day
TVK and DMK party workers clash at Harbour constituency in Chennai
Tamil Nadu voter turnout rises 9% over 2011 high, crosses 85% in assembly polls
Tamil Nadu's assembly elections saw an exhilarating voter turnout of 85%, showcasing the populace's enthusiasm and determination to influence their governance. This increase from prior years is a testament to the heightened political awareness among citizens. The elections were characterized by a vigorous showdown between dominant political coalitions and a fresh contender.
Troubled waters: A.P., T.N. fishermen embroiled in a row
The seizure of four mechanised boats owned by Tamil Nadu fishermen at Juvvaladinne Fishing Harbour in Nellore district by local fisherfolk has prompted the Andhra Pradesh government to reinitiate boat patrolling across four coastal districts, bringing to the fore yet again a four-decade-old issue of illegal intrusion. The conflict takes a political turn and the repercussions are witnessed in 164 A.P. villages, narratesN. S. Chowdary
Two Scheduled Tribe couples in Tamil Nadu exercise their franchise for the first time this election
They received their voter IDs only recently
NOTA loses ground as electors in Tamil Nadu lean towards new political alternatives
In 2013, the Supreme Court directed the Election Commission of India to include NOTA as an option on electronic voting machines, allowing voters to formally reject all candidates
Record turnout in WB & Tamil Nadu polls despite violence
Record voter turnout marked Phase 1 of the 2026 Assembly elections in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu, despite sporadic violence and polling disruptions.
Business houses in Tamil Nadu pause for election
IT firms and parks along the OMR corridor wore a deserted look on election day
In todays episode, we look at the key election trends in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal, tracking major shifts ahead of polling. We also cover the political row in the United States over birthright citizenship, rising tensions in West Asia around the Strait of Hormuz, and a significant change in West Bengals campaign landscape, and more
Limited bus services affect polling day travel; robots dressed in 'dhavanis' (half-sarees) welcome and assist voters in several booths across the Stat... Tamil Nadu elections 2026 highlights: Over 85% voter turnout in State for the first time since Independence
West Bengal Records 92% Turnout in Phase 1, Tamil Nadu Sees Over 84% in Assembly Polls
Tamil Nadu registered 73.63 per cent voting in 2021. It recorded its highest voter turnout --78.29 percent- in the 2011 assembly polls, which the AIADMK swept.
A tsunami-like wave of change is certain in Tamil Nadu: Anbumani
EC salutes voters: Tamil Nadu, West Bengal record highest-ever turnout since Independence
Tamil Nadu Elections 2026: Akshaya Hariharan claims someone else cast her vote
Tamil actress Akshaya Hariharan took to social media to reveal that someone else had cast a vote in her name using a different photo in the Tamil Nadu Election 2026 held on April 23.
Tamil Nadu elections 2026: Over 84% voter turnout in the State, highest in its electoral history
Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar said that it was the highest percentage of polling in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu. [The] ECI salutes each voter of West Bengal and Tamil Nadu, he said
Tamil Nadu sees robust voter turnout in a three-cornered fight
The high turnout has left pollsters guessing on the outcome on May 4
CEC hails West Bengal and Tamil Nadu for highest ever voter turnout since independence
While Tamil Nadu recorded 84.69% polling percentage, West Bengal (Phase-I) registered 91.78%
Tamil Nadu exit polls date: When will post-vote surveys be released? Check details
Voters in Tamil Nadu are curious about exit poll results for the 2026 Assembly Elections. However, these predictions will not be available today. The Election Commission of India has a strict ban on releasing such data during the voting period. Results will be public only after all voting phases are complete. This ensures a fair election process for all.
Migrant workers face travel chaos in Bengaluru amid polls in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu
The rush resulted in many passengers missing scheduled trains and buses, while others were forced to pay exorbitant fares or devise last-minute travel arrangements amid limited transport availability.
TVK Raises Concerns Over Tamil Nadu Election Arrangements, Files Complaints with CEO
Chennai, April 23: The Tamilaga Vetria Kazhagam (TVK) has submitted two separate complaints to the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Tamil Nadu. These complaints raise serious questions regarding the arrangements for the voting process and alleged irregularities. The first complaint alleges that adequate transportation facilities were not provided at bus terminals across Tamil Nadu for ... Read more TVK Raises Concerns Over Tamil Nadu Election Arrangements, Files Complaints with CEO
The optics deficit: Will missing Stalin-Rahul brotherhood hurt alliance in Tamil Nadu?
The absence of joint rallies between Rahul Gandhi and alliance partners like MK Stalin in Tamil Nadu raises concerns about Congress's coalition strategy. This visual gap fuels speculation and opposition attacks, contrasting with proactive alliance building seen from other INDIA bloc leaders like Arvind Kejriwal.
NDA Government Expected in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu, Claims Piyush Goyal
Mumbai, April 23: Union Minister Piyush Goyal has asserted that the NDA government is set to form in both West Bengal and Tamil Nadu following the assembly elections. During a media interaction in Mumbai, Goyal discussed the Bengal elections. He stated that Mamata Banerjee has historically won elections based on the votes of infiltrators, with ... Read more NDA Government Expected in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu, Claims Piyush Goyal
Newlyweds cast votes immediately after wedding in Gudiyatham
Voter turnout in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu reached historic highs on Thursday. Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar announced the record participation. West Bengal recorded 91.78% polling. Tamil Nadu followed with 84.69%. This surge demonstrates a strong commitment to democratic values across both states. Citizens actively participated in the electoral process.
Tamil Nadu records 84.60% polling till 6pm
Karur district has recorded the highest percentage of polling, with 91.97%, while Salem witnessed a total voting percentage of 90.23%.
TN polls: Head constable stabbed at polling booth in Poompuhar, ex-serviceman arrested
Tamil Nadu recorded around 70% voter turnout till 3 p.m. during the Assembly elections, indicating strong public participation across most districts. High turnout was seen in Namakkal, Erode, and several parts of Coimbatore, while comparatively lower polling was reported in Kanniyakumari and Tirunelveli.
TVK member films casting his vote, shares it in social media and gets arrested
The arrested man has been identified as S Sakthivel, 35.
Tamil Nadu election 2026: Trisha`s post after voting has a Vijay connection
Trisha shared her first post after casting her vote in the Tamil Nadu election 2026, and fans couldn`t help but notice how her post had a connection to Vijay and his party, TVK. She shared a song from their film Ghilli
Tamil Nadu election: Sri Lankan refugee camp resident casts his first vote as Indian citizen
Most first-time voters are in their early 20s. I am almost 40. But I feel as if my life as an Indian has just begun, and my the future of my children as Indian citizens is assured, R. Gokuleswaran said
It is a three way contest in Tamil Nadu, says N. Ram, The Hindu Publishing Group
In this interview, N. Ram talks about what voters want in the ongoing 2026 Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly election, emphasizing that the electorate in Tamil Nadu is largely focused on governance rather than mere political rhetoric.
Tamil Nadu elections 2026: Rajnikanth casts his vote
99-Year-Old Dr. HV Hande Casts Vote, PM Modi Calls It a Significant Message for Youth
New Delhi, April 23: Voter enthusiasm was high during the first phase of voting in West Bengal and across all seats in Tamil Nadu on Thursday. Political parties made concerted efforts to encourage maximum voter turnout at polling booths. In a notable moment, 99-year-old Dr. HV Hande cast his vote, prompting Prime Minister Narendra Modi ... Read more 99-Year-Old Dr. HV Hande Casts Vote, PM Modi Calls It a Significant Message for Youth
Trisha's First Post After Tamil Nadu Vote Has A Vijay Link You Cannot Ignore
Trisha Krishnan has been making headlines for reportedly being in a relationship with Vijay
The major news headlines of the day and more.
Villagers boycott TN assembly election
The village has 956 registered voters, and all of them boycotted the election.
TN polls: After casting vote, CM Stalin says Tamil Nadu will win
Tamil Nadu records 82.24% polling till 5pm
This represents 4.71 cr voters out of the total electorate of 5.73 crore in 234 constituencies.
Explained: How Tamil Nadus election manifestos address the climate crisis | Climate Economy
As Tamil Nadu prepares to vote, climate change is no longer a distant concern. From extreme heat and floods to coastal erosion and agricultural stress, this analysis examines how seriously political parties have engaged with the climate crisis in their election manifestos and what to watch beyond the promises.
Tamil Nadu assembly poll 2026: AIADMK will sweep 210 seats; EPS will return as CM: SP Velumani
Velumani, who is AIADMKs Thondamuthur candidate, cast his vote with his family at Sugunapuram Government School early in the day.
Tamil Nadu records 70% polling till 3 pm; EC officials expect 85% turnout at end
Kangayam constituency in Tirupur district saw over 78% of the electorate casting their votes, while the Bhavani constituency in Erode recorded 77.64%.
West Bengal leads voter turnout at 78.77 pc, Tamil Nadu records 70 pc till 3 pm
Several districts in both states recorded high participation, reflecting strong voter engagement. Polling continues amid tight security, with major political parties contesting closely fought battles in both states
Robots Welcome Voters in Tamil Nadu Elections, Sparking Enthusiasm in Vellore
Vellore, April 23: During the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, voters in Vellore district experienced a unique welcome at select polling stations, where robots greeted them and assisted in the voting process. As part of a pilot project initiated by the Election Commission, humanoid robots were deployed at specific polling centers in the Gudiyattam and Vellore ... Read more Robots Welcome Voters in Tamil Nadu Elections, Sparking Enthusiasm in Vellore
High Voter Turnout in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu Elections Amid Tight Security
New Delhi, April 23: Voting is underway for the assembly elections in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu. In West Bengal, the first phase of voting is taking place, while Tamil Nadu will conduct its voting in a single phase. According to the latest figures released by the Election Commission of India (ECI), voter enthusiasm is ... Read more High Voter Turnout in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu Elections Amid Tight Security
Seven Chennai constituencies record above 70% polling till 3pm
Wheelchair crunch at polling stations irks voters in Thiruporur
BJP will sweep Bengal polls; DMK to pay for anti-Sanatan mindset in TN: Nitin Nabin
Bharatiya Janata Party president Nitin Nabin predicts a decisive win in West Bengal elections. He anticipates an absolute majority for the BJP, leading to the formation of a new government. Nabin also foresees the BJP-led coalition retaining power in Assam and Puducherry. He believes the party will achieve victory in Tamil Nadu as part of the NDA alliance.
Tamil Nadu witnessed brisk voting across 234 constituencies, with high-profile leaders, celebrities, and first-time voters participating in large numbers. Actor Vijay's TVK sought extended polling hours due to delays, while a robot greeted voters at a Chennai booth. The election sees a three-way contest between DMK, AIADMK, and TVK.
Tamil Nadu Polls: Student-Built Robot Greets Voters In Coimbatore
Voter's great response to robot; promotes 100% turnout.
Tamil Nadu election: Bedridden woman brought to polling station in ambulance
Tamil Nadu election: TVK supporter arrested in Tirupattur for filming himself casting vote
He also shared the clip on social media, inviting public outcry
Tamil Nadu election: Chennai turnout crosses 50%; more than 14 lakh people cast votes by 1pm
The estimated poll percentage released by the Election Commission of India at 1.32pm for Chennai district showed that Virugambakkam recorded the highest turnout at 59.3%, followed closely by T Nagar (Thiyagarayanagar) at 58.01%.
Tamil Nadu sees 56.81 pc turnout by 1 pm; Tiruppur leads polling
Polling in Tamil Nadu crossed 56.81 pc by 1 pm, with Tiruppur recording the highest turnout. Cities like Chennai, Madurai, and Coimbatore also witnessed strong voter participation across key constituencies
EVM malfunction halts polling for over two hours at Choolaimedu booth in Chennai
Voters said that they were initially told the issue would be resolved within 30 minutes.
Tamil Nadu elections: Central region of State sees brisk, peaceful polling till noon
In Tiruchi East, where actor and TVK founder C. Joseph Vijay is contesting, the polling percentage was 17.72% in the first two hours
Tamil Nadu Polls 2026: Trisha Krishnan Steps Out to Vote in Chennai
Polling is being held for 234 Assembly constituencies across Tamil Nadu.
Tamil Nadu Election: TVK Worker Arrested for Filming Voting Process
Chennai, April 23: During the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, a worker from the Tamilaga Vetrik Katchi (TVK) faced serious consequences for filming the voting process. Shaktivel was arrested for recording a video while casting his vote at the Tirupattur constituency polling station. According to officials, Shaktivel used his mobile phone to film himself voting for ... Read more Tamil Nadu Election: TVK Worker Arrested for Filming Voting Process
Actors Vikram Prabhu and Jiiva Urge Youth to Vote: A Civic Responsibility
Chennai, April 23: In the lead-up to the assembly elections, actors Vikram Prabhu and Jiiva, along with other celebrities, cast their votes in Tamil Nadu. They took the opportunity to engage with the public, emphasizing the importance of voting as both a right and a responsibility. Actor Vikram Prabhu stated, Every election is crucial. New ... Read more Actors Vikram Prabhu and Jiiva Urge Youth to Vote: A Civic Responsibility
DMK, BJP members clash over fake votes allegations in Chennai
TN Polls: Newlywed Couples Cast Vote After Wedding In Ramanathapuram
In the Chinnakadai area of Ramanathapuram district, Tamil Nadu, two newlywed couples from the same family fulfilled their democratic duty immediately after their marriage.
Tamil Nadu polls: No excuses, go out and vote today
As the countdown to polling day ticks down to just 24 hours, dedicated party volunteers are hitting the streets to ensure that every voter makes it to the polling station. In a bid to simplify the voting experience, officials have rolled out an innovative colour-coding system that allows for quick identification of booth locations.
Tamil Nadu election: Annamalai urges EC to act against DMK soft campaign
Annamalai raised several concerns about the conduct of the 2026 Tamil Nadu assembly election, including alleged electoral malpractice and logistical shortcomings.
DMK leader appeals for thoughtful voting as Tamil Nadu sees steady early turnout
Kanimozhi Karunanidhi cast her vote in Chennai and urged citizens to vote with the states future and identity in mind. Polling across Tamil Nadu saw strong participation, with turnout crossing 37% by late morning
Newlyweds Cast Their Votes Right After Wedding, Election Commission Shares Heartwarming Images
Chennai, April 23: Voting is underway in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal. The Election Commission has shared inspiring images and stories from both states that highlight voter awareness and participation. A particularly heartwarming image has emerged from Chennai, Tamil Nadu, where a newlywed couple arrived at the polling station immediately after their wedding. By voting ... Read more Newlyweds Cast Their Votes Right After Wedding, Election Commission Shares Heartwarming Images
Tamil Nadu elections: Robots greet voters at polling booths in Vellore
Election officials said that out of the total 1,427 polling booths in Vellore district, two polling booths were chosen to deploy robots to assist voters
Chidambaram Confident of DMKs Victory in Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections
KaraiKudi, April 23: Former Union Finance Minister P. Chidambaram expressed confidence on Thursday that the Secular Progressive Alliance (SPA) will reclaim power in Tamil Nadu following the assembly elections. Voting commenced at 7 AM across all 234 assembly seats in the state. Over 57.3 million voters are deciding the fate of 4,023 candidates. The electoral ... Read more Chidambaram Confident of DMKs Victory in Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections
Tamil Nadu Election 2026: Rajinikanth`s privacy compromised while casting vote
Rajinikanth cast his vote in the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections amid heavy media presence, with videos raising concerns over voter privacy. Several film celebrities, including Kamal Haasan and Ajith Kumar, also participated in the polling across the state
Bride casts her vote in Namakkal, heads to Tirupur with groom where he would exercise his franchise
Deepika and the groom, Anand of Tirupur, walked straight to polling station wearing garlands. She cast her vote while he waited outside.
BJP Confident of Winning in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal, Says Ajay Alok
New Delhi, April 23: BJP leader Ajay Alok has expressed confidence that the party will perform well in the upcoming assembly elections in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu. He claims that the BJP will form the government in Bengal, while the NDA will secure a majority in Tamil Nadu. In a conversation in New Delhi, ... Read more BJP Confident of Winning in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal, Says Ajay Alok
Tamil Nadu Elections 2026: Ajith Kumars early voting moment gathers huge crowd
Ajith Kumar arrived early in Chennai to cast his vote, drawing huge crowds of fans. Despite returning from abroad, he prioritised civic duty, kept a low profile, and avoided media interaction, earning praise for his responsible and composed approach
Bihar NDA Leaders Optimistic About Elections in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu
Patna, April 23: Bihar NDA leaders have expressed confidence regarding the upcoming assembly elections in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu. They believe that the NDA will secure victories in both states this time. Bihars Deputy Chief Minister, Vijay Chaudhary, commented on the voting trends in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu, stating, There is a prevailing ... Read more Bihar NDA Leaders Optimistic About Elections in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu elections: Cash seizure sparks protest in Erode (West) Assembly segment
Election flying squad officials conducted a search at the office of a construction company run by a DMK functionary and real estate businessman, in Solar. During the inspection, officials seized 8.20 lakh in cash that was allegedly unaccounted for
Extend polling hours till 8 PM: TVK chief Vijay urges EC in Tamil Nadu polls
Tamil Nadu's Assembly elections are underway. TVK chief Vijay has urged the Election Commission to extend polling by two hours until 8 PM. He also requested emergency public transport services. Long queues are reported at polling stations, with the voting process being slow. This could discourage voters. Vijay called for supervisory officers to ensure efficient voting.
Tamil Nadu election: 19 foreign delegates visiting Chennai to observe polling procedures
Officials from the Election Commission and the Indian Information Service briefed the delegates on various aspects of the electoral process.
Tamil Nadu elections: Scheduled Caste hamlet of Vengaivayal boycotts polls
The boycott stems from the alleged contamination of an overhead tank supplying drinking water to the SC hamlet with human faeces an incident that triggered widespread outrage and is currently under investigation by the CB-CID
Voter Turnout Surges in Bengal and Tamil Nadu Elections
Kolkata, April 23: According to data released by the Election Commission of India (ECI), voter turnout in the West Bengal assembly elections reached 41.11% by 11 AM on Thursday, while Tamil Nadu recorded 37.56%. Voting began at 7 AM for 152 assembly seats across 16 districts in West Bengal. This marks the first phase of ... Read more Voter Turnout Surges in Bengal and Tamil Nadu Elections
West Bengal sees 41.11 per cent turnout, Tamil Nadu 37.57 per cent till 11 am
In West Bengal, Paschim Medinipur recorded the highest turnout at 44.68 per cent, followed by Jhargram at 43.71 per cent and Bankura at 43.22 per cent. The lowest turnout was recorded in Malda at 38.22 per cent
Between 9 am and 11 am, voter turnout in all the 16 assembly constituencies in Chennai almost doubled, rising from the mid-teens to the mid-30s and brushing 40% in a few segments,
Tamil Nadu elections: Chennais GST Road sees heavy traffic on polling day
It left several motorists stressed, as some of them were on their way from the city to the outskirts to vote
Watch: Polling underway in Tamil Nadus 234 constituencies
Voting is underway in Tamil Nadu, where the state is set to elect its legislators for its 234 assembly constituencies. The state has over 5.73 crore electors which includes 2,80,30,658 male voters, 2,93,04,905 female voters, and 7,728 third gender voters.
Tamil Nadu elections 2026 | Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan, Ajith Kumar and others cast their votes
Other stars from Tamil Nadus film fraternity, like Vikram, Sivakarthikeyan and Sasikumar, were also seen voting at their respective polling booths in the state
Kolkata, April 23: The voting process for the assembly elections in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu is underway under the supervision of the Election Commission of India. During this period, the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of West Bengal is closely monitoring the election proceedings through webcasting and media monitoring from the Integrated Command and Control ... Read more West Bengal CEO Conducts Live Monitoring of Elections, Ready for Immediate Action Against Irregularities
Praveen Khandelwal Claims Today is a Turning Point for Tamil Nadu and Bengal
New Delhi, April 23: BJP MP Praveen Khandelwal declared Thursday as a pivotal day for Tamil Nadu and West Bengal. He asserted that the people of Bengal will decisively defeat the TMC government, leading to a significant victory for the BJP. In an interview with a news agency, Khandelwal urged voters in West Bengals first ... Read more Praveen Khandelwal Claims Today is a Turning Point for Tamil Nadu and Bengal
First-Time Voters in Tamil Nadu Show Enthusiasm for Elections
Chennai, April 23: First-time voters in Tamil Nadu displayed remarkable enthusiasm as they cast their votes in the assembly elections. They expressed hope that the newly elected government will prioritize the states development. Voting commenced at 7 AM for all 234 seats in the Tamil Nadu assembly. Over 57.3 million voters are participating to determine ... Read more First-Time Voters in Tamil Nadu Show Enthusiasm for Elections
Rajinikanths Poes Garden walk goes viral
Superstar Rajinikanth cast his vote alongside daughter Soundarya in Chennai, drawing significant fan attention. Earlier, his casual stroll through Poes Garden, interacting with locals, went viral, showcasing his down-to-earth persona. His participation, alongside other celebrities like Ajith Kumar, amplified the importance of civic duty and encouraged voter turnout across Tamil Nadu.
Star power in Tamil Nadu polls: Rajinikanth, Vijay, Ajith cast their votes
Hyderabad: Tamil Nadu is holding its Assembly elections on Thursday, April 23, 2026. Over 5.73 crore voters are set to decide the fate of 4,023 candidates. Polling is taking place at 75,064 stations across 33,133 locations. Voting will conclude at 6 pm. From the morning, citizens lined up at polling booths to cast their votes. Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Tamil Nadu elections: M K Stalin, EPS, TVK chief Vijay among top leaders cast votes
Prominent political leaders, including Chief Minister M K Stalin, C Joseph Vijay, and Edappadi K Palaniswami, cast their votes across Tamil Nadu. Leaders expressed confidence in their respective party's victory, urging citizens to participate in the democratic process. Several leaders also voiced their opinions on the election's significance and potential outcomes.
High Voter Turnout in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu Elections
Kolkata, April 23: Voter enthusiasm is palpable in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu as assembly elections unfold. By 9 AM, over 18% voter turnout was recorded in West Bengal, while Tamil Nadu saw more than 17%. According to data released by the Election Commission of India (ECI), West Bengal reported a voter turnout of 18.76% ... Read more High Voter Turnout in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu Elections
Tamil Nadu votes in single phase; Bengal begins Phase 1 polling under tight security
Tamil superstar Rajinikanth casts his vote in Chennai and urges all eligible citizens to vote compulsorily, highlighting the importance of democratic participation.
Petrol Diesel Price Hike: Fuel prices in India may rise significantly after April 29. Global crude oil costs are high, causing losses for Indian refiners. Kotak Institutional Equities predicts a potential increase of Rs 25-28 per litre. This could push petrol prices to unprecedented levels. Higher fuel costs will impact transportation and everyday expenses for consumers across the nation.
