Tamil Nadu Gears Up for 2026 Assembly Elections; DMK and AIADMK Lead the Charge

Chennai, Jan 2026 : Political parties in Tamil Nadu have stepped up preparations as the State steadily moves into full election mode for the 2026 Assembly elections. Two major political fronts have already emerged — the ruling DMK and the principal opposition, AIADMK — both actively shaping their campaign strategies, alliance negotiations, and internal organisational reviews in anticipation of the official announcement of election dates.

According to sources, the Election Commission of India (ECI) is likely to declare the Tamil Nadu Assembly election schedule in the first or second week of March. Preparatory processes are expected to commence in early February, with the ECI conducting a series of consultations and field assessments to ensure smooth and fair elections.

Key meetings with senior officials, who will serve as election observers, are scheduled for February 4 and 5. These consultations will focus on logistical preparedness, security arrangements, voter management, and adherence to the Model Code of Conduct once elections are formally notified. Such steps are routine but critical in a politically active and populous State like Tamil Nadu, ensuring that all administrative mechanisms are in place before polling begins.

Following these consultations, the Chief Election Commissioner is expected to tour the States going to polls this year, including Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and West Bengal, likely in the second week of February. These visits will involve ground-level inspections, assessment of law and order situations, and feedback sessions with the State election machinery to address any gaps in preparedness.

Based on inputs from these meetings and field visits, the ECI will prepare a draft election schedule. Once internal approvals are completed, the Commission will formally announce election dates for all five States, including Tamil Nadu, thereby officially commencing the election process and triggering the Model Code of Conduct.

With political temperatures already rising, the weeks ahead are expected to see intensified campaigning, sharper political messaging, and increased activity across constituencies. Both the ruling DMK and the opposition AIADMK are likely to roll out their strategies, mobilise workers, and engage voters in what promises to be a closely contested Assembly election.

As Tamil Nadu gears up for the polls, parties are leaving no stone unturned, highlighting the State’s significance in shaping the political landscape in the southern region of India.