Tamil Nadu Assembly Polls: Nomination Process Begins with Strict Guidelines

Chennai, March 2026 : The filing of nomination papers for the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections began on Monday, marking a key step in the electoral process. Authorities have issued comprehensive guidelines to ensure that nominations are filed in a smooth, orderly, and transparent manner across all constituencies.

Election officials stated that candidates must strictly follow the rules while submitting their nomination papers. A maximum of three vehicles will be allowed to accompany each candidate, and these must be parked at least 100 metres away from the office of the Returning Officer. Additionally, only the candidate and up to three other individuals will be permitted inside the office during the submission process.

Although the nomination period spans eight days, only four working days are available for filing due to intervening public holidays. Officials have advised candidates to plan their submissions carefully to avoid last-minute issues or delays.

To streamline the process, the Election Commission has introduced an online facility that allows candidates to fill out nomination forms via its official website. However, authorities have clarified that this does not replace the requirement of submitting physical copies. Candidates must still appear in person before the Returning Officer and submit the completed documents within the specified timeframe.

Officials have also stressed the importance of accuracy in filling out nomination forms. Any discrepancies, particularly in names or personal details, may lead to rejection during scrutiny. Candidates are therefore urged to carefully verify all information before submission.

In a move to enhance voter awareness, ballot units in Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) will display colour photographs of candidates. To facilitate this, candidates are required to submit a recent photograph taken within the last three months along with their nomination papers.

Candidates must also file a sworn affidavit detailing their credentials by 3 p.m. on April 6, the final date for filing nominations. The scrutiny of nomination papers will take place on April 7, while April 9 has been set as the last date for withdrawal of nominations.

Polling for the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections is scheduled for April 23, with results to be declared on May 4. Authorities have assured that all necessary arrangements are in place and have urged candidates to comply fully with the guidelines for a hassle-free nomination process.