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
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.
Watch: Is your city growing or just spreading its problems? | Focus Tamil Nadu
Urban expansion in Tamil Nadu is reshaping cities like Coimbatore and Maduraibut not without consequences. This video explores how peri-urban areas, often outside municipal governance, are facing rising pressure on groundwater, increasing flood risks, and weak infrastructure planning.
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.
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.
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
The major news headlines of the day and more.
TN polls: After casting vote, CM Stalin says Tamil Nadu will win
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.
Karti Chidambaram Confident of Secular Progressive Alliances Success in Tamil Nadu Elections
KaraiKudi, April 23: Congress MP Karti Chidambaram expressed strong confidence on Thursday that the Secular Progressive Alliance, led by the DMK, will perform exceptionally well in the Tamil Nadu assembly elections. Accompanied by his wife, Srinidhi, and daughter, Aditi, he visited KaraiKudi in Shivaganga to cast his vote. After voting, Chidambaram stated, I am fully ... Read more Karti Chidambaram Confident of Secular Progressive Alliances Success in Tamil Nadu Elections
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
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.
The election in Tamil Nadu started with long queues of people waiting outside the polling stations to exercise their franchise
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
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
Voter Turnout Reaches 62% in West Bengal and 56.81% in Tamil Nadu by 1 PM
Kolkata, April 23: According to data released by the Election Commission of India (ECI), voter turnout in the West Bengal Assembly elections reached 62.18% by 1 PM on Thursday, while Tamil Nadu recorded a turnout of 56.81%. Earlier in the day, by 11 AM, West Bengal had a voting percentage of 41.11%, and Tamil Nadu ... Read more Voter Turnout Reaches 62% in West Bengal and 56.81% in Tamil Nadu by 1 PM
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.
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
Tamil Nadu polls: By the way, what was that campaign about?
In a surprisingly muted environment, this election unfolded where parties presented alluring incentives and leaders engaged in spirited manifesto debates. Despite efforts to ignite passion around key issues, the campaign primarily focused on concrete matters. Voter turnout is projected to be robust, but what this means for the current administration remains to be seen.
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
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: Polling peaceful, incident-free so far, says Chennai Police Commissioner
Abhin Dinesh Modak interacted with members of the public who were standing in queues at a polling station
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
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
Tamil Nadu elections: Delays, limited bus services affect polling day travel across State
Commuters across Tamil Nadu faced delays and crowding on polling day as limited public transport services disrupted travel to native places
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.
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.
Tamil Nadu elections: TVK chief Vijay urges ECI to extend voting hours amid transport chaos
TVK chief C Joseph Vijay has urged the Election Commission to extend voting hours by two hours, citing widespread transport disruptions and slow polling across Tamil Nadu. He highlighted thousands of stranded voters due to bus diversions for poll duty, calling it an assault on voting rights.
TN 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
Shruti Haasan Votes with Father Kamal Haasan in Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections 2026
Chennai, April 23: The Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections 2026 are underway today, with voters across the state casting their ballots. Many celebrities from the film industry have come out to exercise their voting rights. Actor and Rajya Sabha MP Kamal Haasan arrived at the Chennai High School polling station on Eldams Road, accompanied by his ... Read more Shruti Haasan Votes with Father Kamal Haasan in Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections 2026
Voting begins across Tamil Nadu, people briskly turn up before polling booths to cast votes
Voting for the Tamil Nadu Assembly election began on Thursday. Key parties DMK and AIADMK are contesting. Prominent leaders and actors cast their votes early. Prime Minister Modi urged enthusiastic participation, especially from youth and women. Union Home Minister Shah appealed for a government focused on public aspirations. Over 5.
West Bengal/ Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections 2026 Voter Turnout Live: Voter turnout in West Bengal reached 18.8% by 9:30 am today. Tamil Nadu recorded 17.7% turnout. Voters are casting ballots in 152 constituencies across 16 districts in West Bengal. Tamil Nadu's elections are being held in a single phase. Both states historically see high voter participation. West Bengal's 2021 assembly elections saw over 82% turnout.
West Bengal/ Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections 2026 Voter Turnout Live: Voter turnout in West Bengal reached 18.8% by 9:30 am today. Tamil Nadu recorded 17.7% turnout. Voters are casting ballots in 152 constituencies across 16 districts in West Bengal. Tamil Nadu's elections are being held in a single phase. Both states historically see high voter participation. West Bengal's 2021 assembly elections saw over 82% turnout.
Technical Glitches Delay Voting in Tamil Nadu Elections
Chennai, April 23: Voting for the 234-member Tamil Nadu Assembly commenced at 7 AM today. However, several polling booths experienced delays due to technical issues with the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). Following complaints of malfunctions, election officials acted swiftly to ensure that the voting process resumed without further interruptions. Despite the initial setbacks, long queues ... Read more Technical Glitches Delay Voting in Tamil Nadu Elections
Tamil Nadu Elections: K. Palaniswami Votes with Family for the Eighth Time
Chennai, April 23: Voting for the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections commenced at 7 AM on Thursday. Voters across the state are enthusiastically exercising their right to vote. In this context, K. Palaniswami, the AIADMK candidate and party general secretary, cast his vote with his family in the Edappadi constituency of Salem district. He arrived at ... Read more Tamil Nadu Elections: K. Palaniswami Votes with Family for the Eighth Time
Rajinikanth, Vijay & Kollywood stars vote in Tamil Nadu Elections
The team behind Suriya's upcoming film 'Karuppu' has arrived in Sri Lanka. They received a grand welcome. The cast and crew are there for film promotions and to complete shooting. This overseas schedule is generating significant buzz. The movie is set for a May 14 release. Expectations are high for this RJ Balaji directorial.
Voting begins across TN, people briskly turn up before polling booths to cast votes
Chennai, Apr 23: Voting for the Tamil Nadu Assembly election commenced at 7 AM on Thursday amidst tight security with people briskly lining up in front of the polling stations across the state. The DMK, which heads the Secular Progressive Alliance, is seeking to retain power, and is leading a multi-party coalition that includes Congress, Left parties and the VCK. The AIADMK, heading the National Democratic Alliance, on the other hand, is pushing for a return to power with allies BJP, AMMK and PMK, among others, in tow. Actor Vijay-led TVK is attempting to break the decades long tradition of DMK and AIADMK alternatively ruling the state and form its government. On Thursday AIADMK chief Edappadi K Palaniswami, veteran Congress leader P Chidambaram, former Telangana governor and BJP candidate Dr Tamilisai Soundararajan and NTK top leader Seeman were among the early voters and they cast their votes in Salem, Sivaganga and Chennai respectively. Union Minister L Murugan stood in a serpentine queue and cast his vote in Chennai. Similarly, BJP leader Kushbhu alongwith her filmmaker husband Sundar C voted in the city. Chief Electoral Officer Archana Patnaik voted at Virugambakkam which falls under Maduravoyal Assembly constituency. Tamil Nadu's electorate is 5.73 crore strong and they will vote in as many as 75,064 polling stations in 33,133 locations to decide the fortunes of 4,023 candidates. The total electorate comprises 2.93 women, 2.83 crore men, and 7,728 third-gender persons. The TN Assembly is 234-member strong. The Election Commission has deployed 1,06,418 ballot units along with 75,064 control units and VVPAT machines. To prevent any technical delays, a reserve of 20 per cent for EVMs and 30 per cent for VVPATs is being maintained, according to officials. To ensure peaceful polling, 300 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) have been deployed, alongside 83,875 state police personnel. Tamil Nadu has 14,59,039 first-time voters and 3,98,513 electors aged 85 and above and many of them had already utilised the home voting facility. Over 3.60 lakh government staff are on polling duty. For ease of voting, election authorities have said that amenities including drinking water, toilets, help desk, ramps with proper gradient and volunteer and wheelchair facility has been provided. Officials strictly enforced the ban against taking cellphones and smartwatches inside the polling room.
PM Modi appeals people of Tamil Nadu, Bengal to vote in large numbers
New Delhi, Apr 23: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday appealed to the people of Tamil Nadu and West Bengal to enthusiastically take part in the voting for the Assembly elections in their states. Modi especially urged the youth and women of the two states to vote in record numbers. Polling has started at all 234 assembly constituencies in Tamil Nadu while voting began for 152 assembly seats, out of the 294, in West Bengal this morning. As Tamil Nadu votes in the Assembly elections, I call upon all voters to take part enthusiastically in this sacred duty of democracy. I urge the youth and the women of Tamil Nadu in particular to come out and vote in record numbers, Modi said in a post on X. The prime minister, in another post, said, Phase 1 of the West Bengal Assembly elections takes place today. I urge all citizens to participate in this festival of democracy with full strength. I especially appeal to my young friends and to the women of West Bengal to vote in large numbers. The second phase of polling in West Bengal will be held on April 29. Counting of votes in both states, along with Assam, Kerala and Puducherry, will take place on May 4.
West Bengal, Tamail Nadu polls LIVE: People line up vote in large numbers
Kolkata/Chennai: Voting began on Thursday, April 23, in 152 constituencies in the first phase of the West Bengal assembly elections and all 234 assembly constituencies in Tamil Nadu, amid unprecedented security arrangements and high-stakes battles. According to the Election Commission, over 3.60 crore electors are eligible to vote in this phase in West Bengal, including 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 Assembly Elections 2026 are shaping up as a crucial test of legacy, leadership and survival within the AIADMK camp, still deeply influenced by the shadow of J. Jayalalithaa. Leaders like Edappadi K. Palaniswami, O. Panneerselvam, T. T. V. Dhinakaran and V. K. Sasikala are locked in a battle not just for seats but for relevance in a fractured political space. Key constituencies like Edappadi and Bodinayakanur highlight shifting alliances, internal splits, and intense multi-cornered contests, while local issues such as water management and infrastructure continue to influence voter decisions.
Voting begins today in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. Bharatiya Janata Party leader Suvendu Adhikari urged for peaceful polling in West Bengal. He also questioned the integrity of voter lists. Elections are underway for 234 seats in Tamil Nadu and 294 seats in West Bengal. Counting of votes is scheduled for May 4.
'Vote in record numbers': PM Modi reminds voters of their 'sacred duty' as TN, WB go to polls
Prime Minister Modi urged voters in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu to participate in the sacred duty of democracy as polling commenced for crucial Assembly elections. Appealing particularly to young voters and women, he emphasized the importance of their participation in this significant electoral exercise.
PM Modi Urges High Voter Turnout in Tamil Nadu, West Bengal
In a post on X, the Prime Minister described voting as a sacred duty of democracy and encouraged citizens to take part enthusiastically
Poll seizures surpass Rs 1,000 crore in Bengal and Tamil Nadu
Bengal Accounts For 96% Of Value Of Liquor Seized
Assembly polls: Voting begins in West Bengal, Tamil Nadu
Voting began on Thursday in 152 constituencies in the first phase of the West Bengal assembly elections, amid unprecedented security arrangements and a high-stakes battle that could shape the direction of the entire contest. Polling started at 7 am with voters queueing up outside booths in districts ranging from Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri in the north 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 .
Assembly Elections: Voting begins for single-phase in Tamil Nadu polls, first phase in West Bengal
Voting for Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal Phase 1 is underway. Polling concludes today at 6 PM. Over 5.73 crore voters are participating in Tamil Nadu. West Bengal sees a contest between TMC and BJP. By-elections in Gujarat and Maharashtra are also happening. Vote counting for all elections is on May 4.
DMK vs AIADMK, And A Vijay 'Hero Or Cameo' Question As Tamil Nadu Votes Today
Tamil Nadu is voting today for the assembly elections, with the high-stakes contest pitting the DMK alliance against the AIADMK-led NDA. MK Stalin, whose campaign centred around the Dravidian Model of governance, is seeking to retain power.
Tamil Nadu polls: Stalin holds edge, but dark horse Vijay keeps rivals guessing
Tamil Nadu's intense election campaign has concluded. The M K Stalin-led Secular Progressive Alliance has an edge. Edappadi K Palaniswami's National Democratic Alliance is a contender. Actor Vijay's TVK could influence the outcome. The election hinges on governance, identity, and federalism debates. Voters await the final decision.
Trinamool-BJP Battle Royale Begins In Bengal With 152 Seats In Phase 1
Two states that have eluded the BJP for long are voting today and more than Tamil Nadu, it is Bengal that all eyes will be on. For Trinamool Congress and the BJP, it is a desperate battle amid the political firestorm over voter list revision.
West Bengal, Tamil Nadu Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Voting Begins
West Bengal, Tamil Nadu Election Voting 2026 LIVE Updates: Around 3.6 crore voters in 152 of Bengal's 294 constituencies across 16 districts are expected to vote in the first phase today.
