Chennai, April 2026 : Campaigning for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections officially came to an end at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, marking the beginning of the mandatory 48-hour silence period ahead of voting scheduled for April 23. With this, the state has entered a critical phase where strict regulations will be enforced to ensure free and fair polling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Election Commission had earlier announced the poll schedule on March 15, confirming a single-phase election across all 234 constituencies. The counting of votes is set for May 4, while the tenure of the current government will conclude on May 10.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In the weeks leading up to the campaign deadline, political parties engaged in extensive outreach efforts, finalising seat-sharing agreements, announcing candidates, and holding rallies across the state. The electoral contest this time is largely four-cornered, with major alliances and parties vying for voter support.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The ruling DMK is leading the Secular Progressive Alliance, while the AIADMK is heading the National Democratic Alliance. In addition, the Naam Tamilar Katchi and actor-turned-politician Vijay\u2019s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam are contesting independently, adding further complexity to the electoral battle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Senior leaders from various parties travelled extensively across Tamil Nadu, addressing public meetings and interacting with voters despite intense summer heat. The high-energy campaign saw sharp exchanges and competing promises as parties attempted to consolidate their support base before the deadline.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With campaigning now concluded, the Model Code of Conduct has entered its strictest phase. Tamil Nadu Chief Electoral Officer Archana Patnaik issued detailed guidelines outlining restrictions that will remain in force until the completion of polling on April 23, in accordance with Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
During the silence period, all forms of election campaigning are strictly prohibited. This includes public meetings, rallies, processions, and any organised political gatherings. Authorities have also imposed a blanket ban on the dissemination of election-related content through electronic and digital media, including television, radio, social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, and X, as well as SMS and other internet-based communication channels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Entertainment events that could influence voters, such as music concerts or theatrical performances, have also been banned. Officials warned that violations of these rules could result in stringent penalties, including imprisonment of up to two years, fines, or both.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In addition, all political workers and party representatives who are not registered voters in a particular constituency have been directed to leave the area before the silence period begins. This measure is aimed at preventing undue influence on local voters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Authorities have stepped up surveillance across the state, particularly at locations like marriage halls, lodges, hostels, and guest houses, to ensure compliance with the regulations. Vehicle permits issued to candidates and star campaigners have been withdrawn following the campaign deadline.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
On polling day, vehicle usage by candidates will be strictly limited and regulated by election officials. The use of hired vehicles to transport voters to polling booths has been explicitly prohibited.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Candidates are permitted to set up election booths near polling stations, but these must be located at least 100 metres away and staffed by no more than two individuals. Gathering of crowds near polling stations is strictly disallowed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As Tamil Nadu prepares to cast its votes, authorities remain focused on maintaining law and order and ensuring that the democratic process unfolds smoothly and transparently.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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