Voting for the 2026 Assembly elections got underway at 7 am on Thursday across multiple constituencies in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal, marking a crucial phase in the electoral calendar. Polling will continue till 6 pm, giving voters an 11-hour window to cast their ballots.
Polling hours and voter guidelines
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has advised voters to plan their visit to polling stations in advance to avoid congestion during peak hours. As per standard norms, those standing in queue before the closing time will be allowed to vote.
Officials have also asked voters to carry valid identity documents and follow all prescribed guidelines to ensure a smooth process.
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PM Modi’s appeal to voters
Taking to X, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged citizens to participate actively in the democratic process.
"Phase 1 of the West Bengal Assembly elections takes place today. I urge all citizens to participate in this festival of democracy with full strength. I especially appeal to my young friends and to the women of West Bengal to vote in large numbers," the PM said on X.
Phase 1 of the West Bengal Assembly elections takes place today. I urge all citizens to participate in this festival of democracy with full strength. I especially appeal to my young friends and to the women of West Bengal to vote in large numbers.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 23, 2026
Phase 1 polling in West Bengal
In West Bengal, voting for 152 seats across 16 districts is taking place in Phase 1. Central armed police forces have been deployed extensively, especially in sensitive areas, to maintain order and prevent any untoward incidents.
The second phase of polling in the state is scheduled for Wednesday, April 29.
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Tamil Nadu votes in single phase
In Tamil Nadu, polling is being conducted in a single phase across all 234 Assembly constituencies. With over 5.7 crore registered voters, authorities have made extensive logistical and security arrangements to manage the scale of the exercise efficiently.
Security and preparations
The ECI has emphasised strict adherence to the Model Code of Conduct, with measures in place to ensure free and fair elections in both states. Campaigning concluded earlier this week, setting the stage for voting amid tight security.
