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India's Election Commission Announces Poll Dates for Five Assemblies
India Gears Up for Assembly Elections
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has officially unveiled the schedule for assembly elections across four states—Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal—and one Union Territory, Puducherry. Polling is set to occur from April 9 to April 29. West Bengal will see voting conducted in two phases, while Tamil Nadu will hold elections for its 234 assembly seats on April 23. The counting of votes for all five assemblies is slated for May 4, marking a significant electoral season for India.
Key Contests and Voter Turnout
West Bengal, with an electorate of approximately 64.4 million voters, will contest 294 seats. In Tamil Nadu, the incumbent DMK-led alliance aims to retain power after its landslide victory in 2021, facing a strong challenge from its main rival, the AIADMK, as part of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). The Election Commission has issued a stern warning to political parties against attempts to influence voters through inducements or violence, emphasizing the importance of fair and transparent elections. The Model Code of Conduct has been enforced immediately, underscoring the commission's commitment to a smooth electoral process.
*Source: YouTube: WION (2026-03-16)*
