Preparations are intensifying for the upcoming 2026 Assembly elections across Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Puducherry, with political parties engaged in nominations, seat-sharing discussions, and initial campaign activities.
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has completed the first randomisation of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs) for the polls scheduled in Assam, Kerala, and Puducherry. Campaign efforts are also gaining momentum, with Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi set to launch his election campaign in Kozhikode, Kerala, on March 25.
In Tamil Nadu, the election is anticipated to feature a four-cornered contest, introducing the newly formed Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) as a significant contender. Voting dates have been confirmed: Assam, Kerala, and Puducherry will go to polls on April 9, 2026. Tamil Nadu's election is scheduled for April 23, 2026, which also marks the first phase of elections in West Bengal, followed by its second phase on April 29, 2026. The counting of votes for all these elections is scheduled for May 4, 2026.
Source: https://www.thehindu.com/elections/assembly-elections-kerala-tamil-nadu-west-bengal-assam-puducherry-live-updates-march-22-2026/article70771411.ece
