Polling took place across 142 Assembly seats in seven districts of south Bengal, including Purba Bardhaman, Hooghly, South 24 Parganas, North 24 Parganas, and Nadia. The excitement was palpable as citizens flocked to the booths, eager to cast their votes.

Key statistics from the election:

• Overall turnout across two phases: 93%, the highest since Independence.
• Second phase turnout: 92.65%.
• Highest polling rates recorded in:
• Purba Bardhaman: 93.39%
• Hooghly: 91.41%
• South 24 Parganas: 91.45%
• North 24 Parganas: 91.39%
• Nadia: 91.35%

The Election Commission of India is set to begin counting for these Assembly elections on May 4, starting at 8:00 AM. Initial trends are expected shortly after counting commences, with final results anticipated by evening.

This year’s elections have not only drawn significant attention due to their historical voter turnout but also reflect a growing engagement among the electorate in West Bengal. Observers are keenly watching how these results will shape the political landscape moving forward.

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Stalin’s confident assertion that “Coimbatore will become a DMK stronghold in the 2026 elections” reverberates through the air like a rallying cry. His belief is not unfounded; the DMK has been steadily gaining traction among voters disillusioned with the current ruling alliance of AIADMK and BJP. In his speeches, he has emphasized support for candidates aligned with the secular progressive Alliance across multiple constituencies.

The backdrop to this political maneuvering is significant. The Nilgiri district, often seen as a bastion for AIADMK and BJP supporters, is now under scrutiny. “I predict a significant defeat for the AIADMK-BJP alliance in the Nilgiri district,” Stalin declared, his voice firm against the cacophony of dissenting opinions.

Yet, it is not just about winning votes; it’s also about accountability. In his critique of Prime Minister Modi’s “double engine” government claim—an assertion that has been met with skepticism—Stalin pointed to failures such as the delayed Madurai AIIMS project. This project, once heralded as a beacon of progress, now stands as a symbol of governmental inefficiency.

Palaniswami’s unwavering support for BJP’s controversial laws was not spared either. “Palaniswami’s support for BJP’s laws will lead to defeat,” Stalin warned, suggesting that loyalty to central policies may alienate local voters.

The stakes are high as DMK aims to solidify its presence in the Kongu region, which includes Coimbatore—a region traditionally dominated by its rivals. The atmosphere is electric; every speech, every rally is laden with anticipation and hope.

As observers watch closely, questions linger: Will Stalin’s predictions come to fruition? Can he truly transform Coimbatore into a DMK bastion? The answers remain uncertain but are eagerly awaited by both supporters and opponents alike.

In this dynamic landscape of Tamil Nadu politics, one thing is clear: M.K. Stalin’s campaign efforts are more than just rhetoric—they represent a calculated strategy aimed at redefining power dynamics ahead of crucial elections.

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“I was hurt because my name was not mentioned while a candidate from a neighboring area was acknowledged,” expressed R Sreelekha, a BJP candidate and former IPS officer, during a rally in Vattiyurkavu, Kerala. Her words resonated with the crowd, highlighting the tensions brewing within the party as the Kerala assembly elections loom closer.

The incident unfolded when External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, addressing the audience, acknowledged the name of BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar but failed to mention Sreelekha. This oversight prompted Sreelekha to leave the stage in visible frustration, surprising many attendees who witnessed the unfolding drama.

Party leaders quickly intervened, urging Sreelekha to return to the stage, an action that underscored the delicate balance of party unity as they gear up for the elections. The rally, intended to galvanize support, instead revealed cracks that could impact the BJP’s campaign strategy.

The electoral contest in Vattiyurkavu is shaping up to be a triangular battle, with Sreelekha facing off against K. Muraleedharan of Congress and V. K. Prashanth of the CPI(M). With voting scheduled for April 9, 2026, approximately 2.71 crore voters will decide the fate of 890 candidates across Kerala.

As the election date approaches, the BJP must navigate not only external competition but also internal discord. Sreelekha’s departure from the rally serves as a stark reminder of the challenges the party faces in maintaining cohesion amidst a fiercely competitive political landscape.

With just days left until the polls, party leaders are likely to focus on mending any rifts and ensuring that all candidates feel valued and recognized. The fallout from this incident may influence how the BJP approaches its campaign in the final stretch.

As the political atmosphere intensifies, all eyes will be on how Sreelekha and her party respond to this moment of tension. The outcome of the elections could hinge not only on voter sentiment but also on the party’s ability to present a united front.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding any further implications of this incident, but it undoubtedly adds a layer of complexity to the unfolding electoral narrative in Kerala.

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In a shocking turn of events, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury and Shashi Tharoor were both attacked during a political campaign in Malappuram, Kerala, raising serious concerns about the escalating violence in Indian politics. The incident occurred on April 3, 2026, as Tharoor was campaigning for UDF candidate AP Anil Kumar.

Tharoor’s convoy, consisting of two vehicles, was reportedly blocked by eight individuals, leading to a chaotic scene. A security guard was injured while attempting to intervene, underscoring the dangers faced by political figures in the region.

In a statement following the attack, Tharoor expressed his gratitude for the outpouring of concern, saying, “I am truly moved by your messages and calls expressing concern about the attack on my security personnel.” He described the incident as “unfortunate” and noted that he had been on the election trail for 15-16 days without any prior incidents.

Simultaneously, Chowdhury, who is a candidate for the upcoming 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections from Baharampur, claimed that he was also attacked by workers of the Trinamool Congress (TMC). He stated, “TMC workers and supporters attacked me,” highlighting the intense rivalry between political factions in the area.

Chowdhury has a long history in politics, having served multiple terms as an MP from Baharampur. His involvement in the current electoral race has made him a target for rival party members, further complicating the already volatile political landscape.

In the aftermath of the attack on Tharoor’s convoy, police have detained two suspects in connection with the incident, but the situation remains tense. The involvement of TMC supporters in Chowdhury’s attack raises questions about the safety of candidates as the elections approach.

As the political climate heats up in Kerala and West Bengal, the implications of these violent incidents could resonate throughout the upcoming elections. With both Chowdhury and Tharoor facing threats to their safety, the stakes have never been higher.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of the injuries and the motivations behind the attacks, leaving the public and political analysts eager for further developments.

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The BJP’s candidate list, released ahead of the elections scheduled for April 23, 2026, has raised eyebrows, particularly because Annamalai, who previously served as the state BJP chief from 2021 to 2025, was not included. Nainar Nagendra, a senior BJP leader, stated, “This is the decision of the party high command,” indicating that the central leadership made the final call regarding the candidates. This decision comes almost a year after Annamalai was removed from his position as state president, a move that many believe has affected his political standing.

In a further twist, Annamalai had recently stepped down as election in-charge for six assembly constituencies, citing his father’s ill health. Despite these setbacks, he expressed his commitment to support all NDA candidates, emphasizing unity within the alliance. The BJP, along with its allies, including AIADMK and PMK, is gearing up for a challenging election, with the AIADMK contesting 178 seats, the BJP 27, and PMK 18.

Political analysts suggest that caste dynamics played a significant role in Annamalai’s sidelining. Both he and AIADMK leader Edappadi K Palaniswami belong to the Gounder community, which accounts for approximately 5% to 7% of Tamil Nadu’s population. This demographic detail adds a layer of complexity to the electoral strategies being employed by the BJP and its allies, as they navigate the intricate caste landscape of the state.

Annamalai’s absence from the candidate list has become a significant talking point in the elections, especially given his previous role in enhancing the BJP’s visibility in a state traditionally dominated by Dravidian parties. His political style and grassroots outreach were instrumental in expanding the party’s presence, making his exclusion from the list all the more noteworthy.

As the elections draw closer, the BJP’s central leadership appears to be prioritizing stability in its alliance with AIADMK over pushing for Coimbatore seats, a region where Annamalai had previously made significant inroads. Piyush Goyal, another senior BJP leader, noted that “Annamalai prefers to work across the state rather than be confined to a single constituency,” suggesting a strategic shift in how the party is approaching this election cycle.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact reasons behind Annamalai’s absence from the candidate list, leaving many to speculate about his future role within the BJP. As the NDA aims to secure 210 seats in the upcoming assembly elections, the implications of Annamalai’s situation will undoubtedly be closely monitored by political observers and party members alike.

With the polling date fast approaching, all eyes will be on how the BJP navigates this unexpected turn of events and whether Annamalai’s commitment to the party will translate into a successful campaign for the NDA candidates he vows to support.

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The Congress party, grappling with internal factionalism, has finally unveiled its candidate list for the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections scheduled for April 23, 2026. This announcement comes at a critical time as the political landscape in Tamil Nadu is heating up, with various parties positioning themselves for a competitive race.

In a strategic move, Congress has released a list of 27 candidates, including 12 out of 18 sitting MLAs who have been renominated. This decision reflects the party’s attempt to maintain continuity and capitalize on the incumbents’ established connections with their constituencies.

K Selvaperunthagai is set to contest from Sriperumbudur, while M Rajesh Kumar will represent Killiyoor. J M H Aassan Maulaana, a notable figure, has been renominated from Velachery, and Ruby R Manoharan will again contest from Nanguneri. Other candidates include Durai Chandrasekar from Ponneri and S Mangudi from Karaikudi, both of whom are also seeking to retain their seats.

Interestingly, Tharagai Cuthbert has been shifted to contest from Colachel, while T T Praven will stand in Vilavancode. This reshuffling indicates a tactical approach by Congress to strengthen its position in key areas.

In a significant alliance, Congress is partnering with the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), which is contesting in 164 of the 234 seats in Tamil Nadu. This collaboration aims to consolidate votes against rival parties and enhance their chances of success in the elections.

As the election date approaches, political observers are keenly watching how these candidates will perform and how the alliances will play out in the electorate. The dynamics of Tamil Nadu’s political arena are shifting, and the stakes are high for all parties involved.

With the Congress party’s candidate list now public, the focus will shift to campaign strategies and voter outreach efforts as they gear up for the electoral battle ahead. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the effectiveness of their plans and the overall response from the electorate.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the final strategies and campaign initiatives that Congress will adopt as they prepare for the elections. However, the party’s commitment to its candidates and alliances is clear as they aim for a strong showing in the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.

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As the Tamil Nadu assembly elections loom on April 23, 2026, the political landscape was initially expected to be dominated by the fresh face of Vijay, the chief of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). His entry into the political arena was anticipated to energize the electorate, particularly among the youth, as he announced his candidacy for the Perambur and Trichy East constituencies.

However, this promising start has been overshadowed by a significant legal setback. On March 31, 2026, a case was registered against Vijay for violating election conduct rules during a public gathering that attracted over 5,000 supporters. The complaint, filed by Flying Squad Officer Kumar, alleges that Vijay used around 30 loudspeakers, which not only breached regulations but also caused a public nuisance by obstructing pathways and blocking an ambulance.

The charges against him include public nuisance, unlawful assembly, and obstruction of public ways, marking a stark contrast to the hopeful narrative surrounding his campaign. The incident has raised questions about the conduct of new political entrants and their adherence to electoral guidelines.

Video evidence of the gathering has been submitted as part of the complaint, further complicating Vijay’s position. Despite the legal challenges, Vijay has publicly stated that his party will cooperate fully with the legal process, indicating a willingness to address the situation head-on.

Political analysts suggest that this incident could have far-reaching implications for the TVK’s campaign strategy. The initial momentum that Vijay built may now be at risk, as voters could perceive these legal troubles as indicative of a lack of preparedness for governance. The timing of this controversy is particularly critical, coming just weeks before the elections.

As the situation unfolds, the impact on voter sentiment remains to be seen. The TVK, which was expected to capitalize on Vijay’s celebrity status, now faces the challenge of mitigating the fallout from this incident. The party’s ability to navigate this legal quagmire will be crucial in maintaining its support base.

With the counting of votes scheduled for May 4, 2026, the urgency for the TVK to address these issues is palpable. The party’s future in the upcoming elections hangs in the balance as they work to reassure voters of their commitment to ethical campaigning.

As the election date approaches, all eyes will be on Vijay and the TVK to see how they respond to this unexpected hurdle. The outcome of this legal battle may very well shape the narrative of the Vijay elections, leaving many to wonder if this is merely a bump in the road or a sign of deeper issues within the party.

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As the political landscape of Tamil Nadu gears up for the 2026 Assembly elections, Trichy East emerges as a pivotal battleground. Currently held by Inigo S Irudayaraj of the DMK, this urban constituency is known for its significant Christian voter base and has witnessed intense electoral competition in the past.

On April 23, 2026, voters will head to the polls to decide the fate of 234 Assembly constituencies across the state. Among the candidates, Vijay, a prominent figure and founder of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), has announced his intention to contest from both Trichy East and Perambur. This strategic move aims to bolster his chances of securing a seat in the assembly.

Vijay, who is popularly known as ‘C Joseph Vijay’, is determined to challenge the DMK’s stronghold in Trichy East, a seat that Inigo Irudayaraj won in 2021 by a substantial margin of 53,797 votes. The previous election saw AIADMK’s Vellamandi N Natarajan finishing second with 40,000 votes, indicating a competitive environment.

In his campaign, Vijay has made bold statements, asserting, “It’s only a two-sided fight between we, the people’s team and Stalin sir’s team.” He emphasizes the need for change, criticizing the experience of established politicians, stating, “They say our people have no experience. But those with experience have only used that experience to loot.” This rhetoric resonates with voters seeking a fresh approach to governance.

Vijay’s commitment to integrity is evident in his promise: “I will not touch even one paisa of the people’s money.” Such declarations aim to build trust among constituents who may feel disillusioned by traditional political practices.

As the election date approaches, the stakes are high for all candidates involved. The DMK has fielded RD Sekar for the Perambur seat, where he previously won by over 50,000 votes. This indicates that the DMK is not taking any chances, reinforcing their strategy to maintain control over key constituencies.

Vijay’s dual candidacy reflects a calculated effort to maximize his influence and voter outreach. With the elections looming, the political atmosphere in Trichy East is charged with anticipation, as both established parties and newcomers vie for the support of the electorate.

As the campaign unfolds, the dynamics of voter sentiment will play a crucial role in determining the outcome. The upcoming elections are not just about individual candidates but also about the broader implications for political alliances and governance in Tamil Nadu.

With the election date set for April 23, 2026, the political landscape in Trichy East is poised for a significant transformation. Voters will soon have the opportunity to express their preferences, shaping the future of their constituency and the state at large.

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The Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) has officially announced its candidate list for the upcoming 2026 Assembly elections, with a total of 234 candidates set to contest across Tamil Nadu. Among them, the party’s founder, C. Joseph Vijay, will be vying for seats in Perambur and Trichy East.

Vijay, who is 51 years old, emphasized the party’s commitment to representing ordinary families, stating, “It will be C. Joseph Vijay from Perambur in Chennai and Tiruchirappalli East.” This marks a significant moment for the actor-turned-politician, as he makes his debut in parliamentary politics after founding TVK in 2024.

The candidate roster includes notable figures such as N. Anand, Adhav Arjuna, R. Arunraaj, CTR Nirmal Kumar, and K. A. Sengottaiyan. Vijay’s vision for the party is clear: to provide a clean, people-centric alternative to the ruling DMK.

Vijay has been vocal about the need for integrity in politics, administering a pledge to his candidates to avoid corruption and prioritize the safety of women. He remarked, “I will not touch even one paisa of the people’s money,” reinforcing his commitment to ethical governance.

In a pointed critique of the political landscape, Vijay stated, “They say our people have no experience. But those with experience have only used that experience to loot.” This sentiment resonates with many voters who are disillusioned with traditional political practices.

As the election date approaches, set for April 23, 2026, observers are keenly watching how TVK’s fresh approach will be received by the electorate. Vijay has framed the upcoming election as a pivotal battle, declaring, “This election is a two-front battle between TVK, which has formed an alliance with the people, and the DMK.”

With the stakes high and the political climate charged, the TVK’s candidate list is expected to stir significant interest among voters in Tamil Nadu. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any last-minute changes or additional candidates, but the groundwork has been laid for what promises to be a dynamic electoral contest.

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The political landscape in Tamil Nadu has been dominated by the DMK since they clinched victory in the 2021 elections, securing an impressive 159 out of 234 assembly seats. As the ruling party, expectations were high for their upcoming candidate list for the 2026 elections, scheduled for April 23. The anticipation surrounding this list has been palpable, with many speculating about potential candidates and strategies that could either solidify their power or challenge their reign.

However, a decisive moment is approaching. The DMK is set to announce its candidate list on March 27, 2026, just days before the nomination window opens on March 30. This announcement is not merely a formality; it is a critical juncture that could influence the party’s electoral strategy and public perception. The DMK plans to contest 164 seats directly, while its allies, including the Congress party and DMDK, will contest 28 and 10 seats, respectively. This coalition strategy aims to consolidate votes and fortify their position against the opposition.

In stark contrast, the AIADMK, the DMK’s primary rival, has already released a total of 150 candidates and will contest 169 constituencies. This aggressive move indicates their determination to reclaim power, despite internal strife that has plagued the party. Saravanan Annadurai, a political analyst, remarked, “In the middle of such infighting, where is the AIADMK even thinking about its electoral prospects?” This sentiment underscores the challenges the AIADMK faces as they attempt to mount a serious challenge to the DMK.

As the DMK prepares to unveil its candidate list, the stakes are high. M.K. Stalin, the party leader, has expressed confidence, stating, “Every seat in Tamil Nadu belongs to the DMK, whether or not the party has a direct candidate there.” This assertion reflects the party’s ambition to maintain its dominance in Tamil Nadu politics, leveraging its established presence and voter base.

Adding another layer to the electoral dynamics is the entry of Vijay, who is contesting with his party Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam without any alliance. His independent candidacy could siphon votes from both major parties, introducing an unpredictable element to the elections. As the political landscape shifts, the DMK’s candidate list will be scrutinized not only for the individuals chosen but also for the broader implications of their selections.

Details remain unconfirmed about the final candidate list, which will be revealed on March 27, 2026. This uncertainty adds to the intrigue surrounding the elections, as potential candidates are speculated upon and strategies are debated. The DMK’s election manifesto, also set to be released on the same day, will further clarify their vision and priorities for the upcoming term.

As the countdown to the elections continues, the political atmosphere in Tamil Nadu is charged with anticipation. With the nomination deadline approaching on April 6, the decisions made in the coming days will be pivotal. The DMK’s ability to navigate this crucial moment will determine not only their electoral fate but also the future of Tamil Nadu politics.

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