Tamil Nadu Records 82.24% Voter Turnout Till 5 PM; ‘CM Stalin Will Come to Power,’ Says DMK Candidate OPS; TVK Flags Lack of Transport for Voters

Tamil Nadu recorded a robust 82.24 per cent voter turnout by 5 pm on Thursday in the single-phase Assembly elections, with polling remaining largely peaceful across the state’s 234 constituencies. The Election Commission reported steady queues at urban and rural booths alike, though opposition parties raised logistical concerns.

Stellar Turnout Across Constituencies

Polling began at 7 am and continued uninterrupted. By 3 pm, the state had registered 70 per cent voting, which climbed sharply to 82.24 per cent two hours later. Chennai city trailed slightly with 54.58 per cent polling till 1 pm, but officials expect final numbers to cross 75 per cent after evening voting.

OPS Confident of DMK’s Return

Former Chief Minister and DMK candidate from Bodinayakkanur, O. Panneerselvam, expressed full confidence in his alliance’s performance. “The people have backed development and stability. Chief Minister Stalin will come back to power with a strong mandate,” Panneerselvam said after casting his vote. His statement signals DMK’s aggressive bid to retain control amid a multi-cornered contest.

TVK Submits Transport Complaint

Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) General Secretaries N. Anand and Aadhav Arjuna met Chief Electoral Officer Archana Patnaik on Thursday afternoon. They submitted a petition highlighting inadequate public transport to polling stations, especially in Chennai’s peripheral areas.

Earlier, TVK chief and actor Vijay had written to Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, demanding two-hour extension of polling hours and immediate bus services for voters stranded at city terminals. The EC has not yet responded formally.

Celebrities and Elderly Lead by Example

Actor Rajinikanth cast his vote at a Chennai booth alongside wife Latha Rajinikanth. Kamal Haasan and Shruti Haasan were also seen exercising their franchise. In Coimbatore, a robot named ‘Tina’ dressed in traditional attire welcomed voters and offered sweets at Government Arts College.

An 85-year-old specially abled voter, Kandasamy, cast his ballot in Karur. A 110-year-old woman also turned up at her local polling station, underscoring high enthusiasm among senior citizens.

EVM Glitches and Security Arrangements

An EVM malfunction at an Avadi booth delayed voting by over an hour. Officials replaced the machine swiftly. Chennai Police Commissioner Abhin Dinesh Modak confirmed deployment of over 28,000 personnel, including Home Guards. “No untoward incident reported so far,” he said.

Visually impaired voter Chandrasekaran thanked the Election Commission for braille-enabled EVMs and wheelchair access. “We had planned a boycott but voted after officials assured improvements,” he told reporters.

What Next in Tamil Nadu Elections 2026

Counting of votes is scheduled for May 4. With turnout crossing 82 per cent, political analysts expect a keen contest among DMK-led alliance, AIADMK, BJP, and TVK. The EC will release final turnout figures after postal ballot inclusions. Transport concerns raised by TVK may lead to formal show-cause notices to district officials.

As Tamil Nadu awaits results, the high participation signals strong public engagement in the democratic process. Officials urge voters to verify their names on electoral rolls before the next phase of national elections later this year.

Suvendu Adhikari Raises 'Har Ghar Bhagwa Chhaega, Ram Rajya Aaega' Slogan in West Bengal Campaign

BJP leader accuses TMC of corruption and exploitation as Bengal heads for two-phase assembly polls on April 23 and 29, with results on May 4.

Suvendu Adhikari's Campaign Pitch  

Suvendu Adhikari, Leader of Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly and BJP candidate from Nandigram and Bhabanipur, struck a strong note during election campaigning on Wednesday. He declared that the public is ready for change and raised the slogan “Har ghar bhagwa chhaega, Ram Rajya aaega”.

Adhikari targeted the ruling Trinamool Congress, calling its leaders “brokers” who have been exploiting the people of Bengal for years. He alleged widespread corruption under the Mamata Banerjee government and claimed that while citizens celebrate Bengali New Year, the Chief Minister appears disconnected from public sentiment.

TMC Faces Heat Over Governance Issues  

The BJP has intensified attacks on the TMC, accusing it of failing to deliver on basic issues like law and order, employment, and welfare. Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, while campaigning, alleged that tea garden workers in Bengal continue to face poverty and neglect despite central funds reaching other sectors in neighbouring states. She questioned why the TMC government has not ensured fair wages for these workers.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing BJP workers under the ‘Mera Booth Sabse Mazboot’ initiative on Tuesday, highlighted rising violence and an atmosphere of fear in the state. He pointed to youth unemployment and government employees approaching courts for justice as signs of administrative failure.

Voter List Row Intensifies  

Mamata Banerjee has accused the BJP of deleting over 90 lakh names from voter lists as part of a conspiracy to influence the polls. BJP leaders, including Sukanta Majumdar, rejected the charge and said any deletions fall under the responsibility of state officials such as BDOs and SDOs working under the TMC administration.

Anurag Thakur hit back at Banerjee’s claims, alleging that the TMC provides shelter to wrongdoers. He coined the phrase “4 May aaegi, Mamata Banerjee jayegi”, referring to the counting day when results of the West Bengal assembly elections 2026 are expected.

Delimitation Debate Echoes in Tamil Nadu  

Parallel developments in Tamil Nadu have added a national dimension to the campaign discourse. Chief Minister MK Stalin convened an emergency meeting of DMK MPs and district secretaries to discuss the Centre’s proposed delimitation exercise. He described it as possible “punishment” for southern states’ contribution to India’s progress and called for black flag protests.

DMK MP Dayanidhi Maran stated that all DMK MPs will vote against the delimitation bill and wear black attire in Parliament. Congress leader KC Venugopal acknowledged genuine concerns among southern and smaller states over changes in representation based on the latest census.

BJP leaders, including K Annamalai, dismissed Stalin’s remarks as routine politics and expressed confidence in the NDA’s prospects in Tamil Nadu, where polling is scheduled for April 23.

Background of High-Stakes Polls  

West Bengal’s 294-member assembly will go to polls in two phases — 152 seats on April 23 and 142 on April 29 — with vote counting on May 4. The TMC has been in power since 2011, while the BJP has steadily expanded its footprint in the state.

The campaign has seen sharp exchanges over voter rights, central funds, and governance. Home voting for elderly and persons with disabilities is underway in districts like Jhargram to ensure smooth participation.

Impact on Voters and Political Landscape  

These developments come amid heightened public interest in governance, development, and political accountability. Issues like women’s reservation, linked to delimitation, have also drawn comments from leaders across parties, with some welcoming the 33 per cent quota while questioning its timing with the bill.

Analysts note that the coming days will test the TMC’s hold in its stronghold against a resurgent BJP pushing for a regime change. Public fatigue with alleged corruption and law and order concerns could play a key role.

What Lies Ahead  

With just over a week left for the first phase of voting, both sides are expected to intensify door-to-door campaigns and rallies. The Election Commission has put in place measures for free and fair polls, including heavy security deployment.

The outcome on May 4 will shape not only Bengal’s political future but also influence broader national debates on federalism and representation. For the latest updates on West Bengal assembly elections 2026 and other India news today, developments continue to unfold rapidly.

PM Modi Targets TMC in Siliguri Rally, Demands Accountability for Madrasa Funding

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday intensified the BJP’s campaign in North Bengal by addressing a public rally in Siliguri, accusing the Trinamool Congress government of neglecting regional development while allocating substantial funds for madrasas.

Siliguri, West Bengal: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a large gathering in Siliguri on Sunday as part of his two-day visit to West Bengal ahead of the state Assembly elections. He asserted that the TMC’s exit from power after the polls was “certain” and criticised the ruling party for alleged discrimination against North Bengal.

Massive Roadshow TurnoutThe Prime Minister recalled his roadshow from Bagdogra to Siliguri on Saturday, which he said extended far beyond the planned short stretch due to overwhelming public participation. He described the response as deeply moving, noting the presence of people, including children, lining the route for over 15 kilometres. “This time, TMC’s departure from Bengal is certain,” Modi declared, crediting the public enthusiasm for what he called an extraordinary show of support.

Attack on Madrasa Funding

In his sharpest remarks, Modi targeted the TMC government over its allocation of around ₹6,000 crore for madrasas. He claimed the ruling party had prioritised its “vote bank” over the development needs of North Bengal, leading to administrative lapses even during recent natural disasters caused by heavy rainfall. 

“The budget of the ruthless TMC government is also an example of discrimination against North Bengal,” he said, adding that the party remained “busy day and night appeasing its own special vote bank.” Modi alleged that while funds flowed to madrasas, the region suffered from neglect in infrastructure and overall progress.

Call for 15-Year Accountability

The Prime Minister warned that after the elections, the TMC would have to account for its 15 years in power. “TMC people, listen carefully. After May 4, every moment of the past fifteen years will be accounted for. They will have to give an account of every penny,” he stated. He appealed directly to voters in Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri districts to support BJP candidates in all 12 assembly seats across the two areas.

Regional Political Context

Darjeeling district, with its five assembly seats currently held by the BJP, features a mix of Gorkha identity politics in the hills and urban-trade concerns in plains like Siliguri. Jalpaiguri remains a contest, with four seats held by TMC and three by BJP. Community dynamics involving Rajbanshi and Scheduled Tribe groups play a key role there.

The rally formed part of Modi’s broader campaign push in the state. On Saturday, he had addressed rallies in Katwa, Jangipur, and Kushmandi, followed by the Siliguri roadshow. Central forces have also stepped up presence, with armoured vehicles reported in parts of the state as polling approaches.

BJP’s Pitch in North Bengal

Modi’s visit highlighted the BJP’s focus on North Bengal, where it aims to consolidate gains. The party projects a “double-engine” government model as the solution to alleged misrule, promising better development and accountability. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath echoed similar sentiments in a separate rally in Bankura on Sunday, stressing the need for a strong government to tackle law-and-order issues.

West Bengal Assembly elections are scheduled in two phases on April 23 and April 29, with vote counting on May 4. The contests in North Bengal are seen as crucial for setting the momentum in the 294-member assembly.

What Lies Ahead

As campaigning intensifies, both major parties continue to trade charges. The TMC has previously countered similar criticisms with its own set of claims on governance and welfare. For now, Modi’s Siliguri address has energised BJP workers in the region, with the party hoping the visible public support translates into electoral gains in the upcoming polls.

This latest development in West Bengal politics underscores the high stakes in North Bengal, where development concerns, community aspirations, and governance records dominate the discourse in the run-up to the crucial state elections.

Mamata Banerjee Files Nomination from Bhabanipur as Bengal Poll Battle Heats Up

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday filed her nomination papers from the Bhabanipur assembly constituency in Kolkata, setting the stage for a high-stakes contest against BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari in the upcoming state elections. The move comes amid growing tensions between the Trinamool Congress and the Election Commission over voter list revisions and official transfers.

High-Profile Clash in Kolkata Seat

Bhabanipur, a traditional TMC stronghold in south Kolkata, has emerged as one of the most watched constituencies in the 2026 West Bengal assembly polls. Mamata Banerjee, who has represented the seat in the past, arrived at the Survey Building to submit her papers. Shortly after filing, she addressed supporters, extending greetings across communities and pledging to work not just for Bhabanipur but for every corner of the state.

“I extend my greetings, my thanks, my respects, my salaam, my Jai Jinendra and Sat Shri Akaal to everyone. Today, as I filed my nomination, I want to say that along with the Bhabanipur constituency, I will work for every centre and every area. We will form the government,” Banerjee said.

Suvendu Adhikari Named BJP Candidate

The BJP has fielded Suvendu Adhikari, Leader of Opposition in the state assembly, from the same seat. Adhikari, a former TMC leader who switched sides and defeated Banerjee from Nandigram in 2021, filed his nomination earlier on April 2. The direct contest between the two senior leaders has turned Bhabanipur into a symbolic battleground for urban and political dominance in Bengal.

TMC Delegation’s Tense Meeting with CEC

Meanwhile, a TMC delegation led by Rajya Sabha MP Derek O’Brien met the Chief Election Commissioner on Wednesday morning to raise concerns over the transfer of officials and the conduct of free and fair polls. The meeting lasted barely five minutes and ended on a sour note.

O’Brien later claimed that the CEC told the delegation to “get lost” within seven minutes. “The meeting started at 10:02 AM and ended at 10:07 AM. When we told him that you are transferring officials, and how you would want to conduct a free and fair election? And then he said, leave from here,” O’Brien alleged.

ECI Urges Decorum, Denies Allegations

Election Commission sources, however, countered the claim, stating that O’Brien was asked to maintain decorum in the Commission room. Officials described the behaviour as inappropriate and clarified that shouting is not acceptable during such meetings. The poll panel has repeatedly vowed to ensure fear-free elections in West Bengal, which is scheduled to vote in two phases on April 23 and April 29.

Massive Voter List Revision Sparks Row

The controversy comes days after the Election Commission released the final voter list following the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process. Nearly 91 lakh names — about 11.85 per cent of the electorate — were deleted from West Bengal’s rolls since the exercise began last November. Of these, over 27 lakh were removed after judicial scrutiny of cases placed under adjudication.

The deletions have reduced the state’s electorate significantly, from around 7.66 crore to roughly 6.75 crore. TMC leaders have questioned the timing and scale of the revisions, while the Commission maintains the process was aimed at cleaning up the rolls and removing ineligible entries.

Broader Poll Landscape in Eastern States

As activity intensifies in Bengal, polling preparations are in full swing in other states going to the polls shortly. Assam, Kerala, and Puducherry are set to vote in a single phase on April 9, with campaigning concluding on Tuesday evening. EVMs and polling materials have already been dispatched to booths across these regions.

In Tamil Nadu, senior DMK leaders including Chief Minister MK Stalin and Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin continued their campaign trail on Wednesday, highlighting welfare schemes such as housing for over 10 lakh people and free laptops for students.

Opposition Voices and Campaign Rhetoric

BJP leaders, meanwhile, have kept up their attack on the TMC government. Senior BJP MP Nishikant Dubey stressed the need to restore Bengal’s identity, while other candidates raised issues of law and order and women’s empowerment. The party released its sixth list of candidates for the state recently.

The Trinamool Congress has accused the poll body of bias and demanded a level playing field. The Election Commission has dismissed such charges and called for all parties to cooperate in maintaining the integrity of the electoral process.

What Lies Ahead for Bengal Voters

With nominations underway and the model code of conduct in force, the focus now shifts to campaigning and ground-level mobilisation. The Bhabanipur contest is expected to draw national attention as a test of strength between Banerjee and Adhikari. Larger issues such as voter list accuracy, official neutrality, and development promises will dominate the narrative in the days to come.

The final electoral rolls are now frozen, and the stage is set for what promises to be a fiercely fought assembly election in West Bengal. Both the ruling TMC and the BJP are leaving no stone unturned to consolidate their support bases ahead of the crucial polling dates in late April.

Modi Predicts Hat-Trick for NDA in Assam as Mamata Slams BJP Over 'Looting' Public Funds

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday asserted that the BJP-led NDA is on course for a third straight victory in the Assam Assembly elections, even as Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee accused the saffron party of corruption and misleading voters ahead of the crucial polls in multiple states.

Assam Polls Heat Up With Sharp Attacks

Prime Minister Narendra Modi kicked off a vigorous campaign push in poll-bound Assam on Wednesday, addressing back-to-back public rallies in Dhemaji and Biswanath districts. Speaking at Gogamukh in Dhemaji, Modi expressed strong confidence that the NDA alliance would secure a hat-trick in the state, where Assembly elections are scheduled for April 9.

Without directly naming Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, the Prime Minister took a swipe at the opposition, referring to the “so-called prince” of the Congress heading for a “century of defeats”. He highlighted the massive crowds at the rallies as proof of public support that the Congress could never match.

Modi also visited a tea garden in Dibrugarh earlier in the day, interacting with women workers and describing the experience as memorable. He called tea gardens the pride of Assam and pledged continued support for workers.

Mamata Targets BJP in Bengal Rally

In West Bengal, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee launched a strong attack on the BJP during a public meeting in Birbhum. She reminded the audience that Bengal had played a key role in India’s freedom struggle at a time when the BJP did not even exist. Banerjee alleged that BJP leaders were “looting public money” and misleading people with false promises.

The TMC supremo stressed the need to defeat the BJP decisively so that it “never stands up again”. Her remarks came amid ongoing tensions over voter list revisions in the state, with the party continuing its protest near the Chief Electoral Officer’s office.

Priyanka Gandhi Accuses Assam Govt of Corruption

Meanwhile, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, campaigning in Dibrugarh and other parts of Assam, described the state government as running under “double slavery” and alleged rampant corruption, intimidation, and the existence of “mafia raj” and “syndrome raj”. She claimed people were tired of such governance and wanted a return to better days.

Development Pitch and Welfare Promises

In his addresses, Modi highlighted several achievements and future plans for Assam. He announced an ambitious ₹18,500 crore under-river tunnel project beneath the Brahmaputra to improve connectivity in the North East. The Prime Minister also promised pucca houses for the poor, with many to be registered in women’s names, along with better kitchens and toilets.

Modi pointed to progress in wildlife conservation, stating that after years of neglect, the BJP-NDA government had restored habitats and increased sightings of one-horned rhinos. He criticised previous Congress regimes for failing to protect the state’s natural resources and cultural icons like Bharat Ratna Bhupen Hazarika.

Other initiatives mentioned included the Lakhpati Didi scheme empowering women, increased assistance under the Arunodoi scheme, and plans for a semiconductor chip manufacturing facility that would position Assam as a hub for both “tea and chip” on the global map. Modi emphasised the “double engine” government’s focus on making Assam self-reliant while addressing long-standing issues of floods and erosion.

Election-Related Developments Across States

In West Bengal, protests erupted in Basirhat over the alleged deletion of 125 voter names from a booth. The Election Commission ordered the suspension of a Block Development Officer in Nadia district following reports of irregularities. The TMC has raised concerns about large-scale issues in Form-6 applications.

In Tamil Nadu, Chief Minister MK Stalin reaffirmed his commitment to his father M Karunanidhi’s ideals during a campaign event in Tiruchirappalli. He criticised both AIADMK and the BJP-led Centre.

The Election Commission has introduced a vote-from-home facility in Assam for elderly voters above 85 and persons with disabilities, with polling teams set to visit homes until April 5. Polling for all 126 seats in Assam is slated for April 9, with results expected on May 4.

Public Interest and Campaign Intensity

As campaigning intensifies across Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu and other states, leaders from major parties are sharpening their attacks while outlining visions for development and governance. The coming days are likely to see further rallies, roadshows and policy announcements as parties seek to consolidate support.

Voters in Assam will decide the fate of the incumbent BJP-led government seeking a third term, while opposition parties aim to capitalise on issues of corruption, welfare and local concerns.

What Lies Ahead

With just over a week left for polling in Assam, the focus remains on voter turnout, last-minute alliances and the Election Commission’s efforts to ensure free and fair polls. The outcome in Assam is being closely watched as an early indicator for the broader Assembly elections in 2026.

The Bharatiya Janata Party released its first candidate lists for the upcoming Assembly elections in West Bengal and Kerala, naming 144 nominees for Bengal and 47 for Kerala. The announcement, made within 24 hours of the Election Commission declaring the poll schedule, signals that the BJP is wasting no time in building momentum for what promises to be one of the most fiercely contested election seasons in recent years.

Suvendu's Bold Double Challenge to Mamata

The biggest headline from the Bengal list is the decision to field Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari from not one but two constituencies — Nandigram and Bhabanipur. Both seats carry deep political significance. Adhikari defeated Mamata Banerjee in Nandigram during the 2021 Assembly elections in one of the most closely watched political battles the state had seen. Banerjee later returned to the Assembly through a by-election from Bhabanipur, a seat she has represented since 2011.

Bhabanipur is considered Banerjee's political stronghold, and Adhikari's candidature from that constituency is widely seen as the party's most high-stakes decision in the first list, underscoring his role as BJP's principal field commander in Bengal. It is an unmistakable message — the BJP intends to take the fight directly to the Chief Minister's doorstep.

A Diverse and Deliberate Bengal List

Beyond Suvendu, the Bengal list is notable for the range of candidates it brings together. Former state BJP president Dilip Ghosh has been fielded from Kharagpur Sadar, former Rajya Sabha MP Swapan Dasgupta from Rashbehari, former India cricketer Ashok Dinda from Moyna, and actor Rudranil Ghosh is also among the nominees.

Of the 144 nominees, 57 come from fields such as teaching, law, medicine, social work and the armed forces. Teachers account for the largest group with 23 candidates, alongside advocates, doctors, retired military personnel, journalists and cultural personalities. The party has also included 41 sitting MLAs and three former legislators, choosing to back its existing political networks rather than attempt a wholesale reshuffle.

Kerala: A State the BJP Wants to Crack

In Kerala, the BJP named state president and former Union minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar as its candidate from Nemom in Thiruvananthapuram district — the only Assembly constituency the BJP has ever won in the state, securing the seat back in 2016.

Other senior leaders fielded include former state chief K Surendran from Manjeshwar, former Union minister V Muraleedharan from Kazhakootam, Union Minister of State George Kurian from Kanjirappally, and senior leader Sobha Surendran from Palakkad. Among women candidates, the party has nominated former DGP R Sreelekha from Vattiyoorkavu, Padmaja Venugopal from Thrissur, and Navya Haridas from Kozhikode North.

Though the BJP is yet to win an Assembly seat in Kerala at scale, recent wins in the Thrissur Lok Sabha constituency and Thiruvananthapuram municipal polls have boosted its confidence heading into 2026.

The Election Schedule

West Bengal will vote in two phases — April 23 and April 29 — with vote counting for all states on May 4. Kerala, along with Assam and Puducherry, goes to the polls in a single phase on April 9. The Election Commission noted that reducing West Bengal to two phases, compared to eight in 2021, was a deliberate decision to make the process more convenient and manageable for all stakeholders.

What It Means

The speed with which the BJP released these lists — before most other parties had even begun internal deliberations — reflects a party that has learned from past election cycles and is determined to control the early narrative. In Bengal, the challenge is to unseat a Chief Minister who has won three consecutive terms and commands a formidable grassroots machinery. In Kerala, the goal is humbler but no less symbolic — to move from fringe player to credible force in a state dominated by the Left and the Congress. Both battles will define the BJP's 2026 story.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has fired its opening shot for the 2026 Assembly elections by releasing its first candidate list West Bengal today. In a surprise move, the party named senior leader Suvendu Adhikari to contest from both Nandigram and Bhabanipur – two seats deeply tied to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

The list includes 144 candidates for West Bengal and 47 names for Kerala, giving the BJP a clear early start in two key battleground states.

Nandigram and Bhabanipur: The High-Stakes Rematch  

Suvendu Adhikari’s double entry has instantly grabbed headlines. In 2021, he defeated Mamata Banerjee from Nandigram in one of the most dramatic contests of that election. Banerjee later won Bhabanipur in a bypoll to stay Chief Minister.  

By fielding Adhikari from both seats, the BJP is sending a strong message – it wants to challenge the TMC supremo directly where it hurts most. Political watchers say this move could turn these two constituencies into the biggest talking points of the 2026 campaign.

Other Big Names in West Bengal List  

The BJP has picked strong candidates for several important seats:  

• Deepak Kumar Haldar from Diamond Harbour (TMC’s Abhishek Banerjee territory)  

• Agnimitra Paul from Asansol South  

• Former state president Dilip Ghosh from Bolpur  

These choices show the party is targeting both urban and rural pockets across the state.

BJP’s First List for Kerala Also Out  

Just hours before the West Bengal announcement, the BJP released its Kerala list with 47 candidates out of 140 seats. Former Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar has been fielded from Nemom – the same seat where he lost the 2024 Lok Sabha poll to Shashi Tharoor.  

Though the BJP is yet to win an Assembly seat in Kerala, recent wins in Thrissur Lok Sabha and Thiruvananthapuram municipal polls have boosted its confidence.

Why This Matters Right Now  

West Bengal has been ruled by Mamata Banerjee for 14 years. A TMC victory in 2026 would give her a fourth straight term. In Kerala, the ruling Left Democratic Front is fighting to break the state’s usual power-alternation pattern.  

With polling dates fixed – Kerala and Assam on April 9, West Bengal in two phases on April 23 and 29 – both parties are racing to build momentum. The BJP’s early candidate list West Bengal gives it a head start in ticket distribution and campaign planning.

Election Commission Steps Up Security  

The Election Commission has already deployed over 5,173 flying squads and 5,200 static surveillance teams across the poll-bound states. Vote counting for all states and bypolls in six other states will happen together on May 4.

What Readers Should Watch  

Keep an eye on whether Suvendu Adhikari actually contests both seats or if the BJP uses one as a strategic pressure point. Also track how TMC and Left parties respond in the coming days. These early lists often set the tone for the entire campaign.

The 2026 Assembly polls are shaping up as a fierce fight. The BJP’s bold first move with its candidate list West Bengal has already raised the temperature in both Bengal and Kerala. Stay tuned – the real battle is just beginning.