The Election Commission of India has announced the schedule for assembly elections in West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Assam, and Puducherry. Voting will take place in phases between April 9 and April 29, 2026, with counting scheduled for May 4. The Model Code of Conduct is now in effect
The Election Commission of India has announced the schedule for assembly elections in West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Assam, and Puducherry. Voting will take place in phases between April 9 and April 29, 2026, with counting scheduled for May 4. The Model Code of Conduct is now in effect.
Introductory Brief
On March 15, 2026, the Election Commission released the official poll dates for five states and one Union Territory. This announcement marks the beginning of a high-stakes electoral season, with political parties gearing up for intense campaigning across diverse regions.
Polling Schedule
Assam, Kerala, and Puducherry will vote on April 9, 2026. Tamil Nadu will hold elections on April 23, while West Bengal will vote in two phases on April 23 and April 29. Counting of votes for all regions will take place on May 4, 2026.
Significance Of The Announcement
The elections will involve over 17 crore eligible voters, making this one of the largest democratic exercises of the year. The phased polling in West Bengal reflects its size and complexity, while single-phase elections in Kerala and Tamil Nadu highlight streamlined logistics. The announcement sets the stage for fierce political battles.
Key Highlights
* Election Commission announces poll dates for five states and Puducherry
* Voting scheduled between April 9 and April 29, 2026
* Counting of votes on May 4, 2026
* Model Code of Conduct now in effect across poll-bound regions
* Over 17 crore voters expected to participate
Sources: The Hindu, Indian Express, NDTV, Economic Times