Polling in Tamil Nadu’s Assembly elections reached a record 85.15% voter turnout, with Karur registering the highest at 92.63% and Chennai reporting 83.74%. The contest is led by the DMK-backed Secular Progressive Alliance against the AIADMK-led National Democratic Alliance, as Chief Minister M.K. Stalin seeks to retain power amid intense competition.
Voting in Phase 1 of the West Bengal and Tamil Nadu assembly elections concluded Thursday with overwhelming turnout in both states. West Bengal recorded a historic 92.68% turnout by 10 pm, intensifying the battle between BJP and ruling TMC, which is aiming for a fourth consecutive term. Tamil Nadu also voted in this phase as DMK seeks its second term.
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Voting began across Tamil Nadu for the Assembly election on Thursday, with DMK and AIADMK among the main contenders. Prominent political leaders and actors cast their votes early, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged especially enthusiastic participation from youth and women. Union Home Minister Amit Shah called for a government that prioritizes public aspirations as polling gets underway.
Tamil Nadu’s 2026 Assembly elections saw an unusually high voter turnout of 84.69 percent, drawing fresh political interpretation. AIADMK spokesperson Kovai Sathyan said the strong participation reflects widespread anti-incumbent sentiment against the DMK government. He also praised the Election Commission for enabling a smooth voting process, even as debates over the turnout’s meaning intensify.
Tamil Nadu will vote on April 23 for its 234-member Legislative Assembly, with campaigning over and a silence period in place. More than 5.67 crore voters will cast ballots in a four-cornered fight led by major alliances of DMK and AIADMK. Counting is set for May 4, with the result closely watched across the state.
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