After weeks of intense campaigning, voting has begun in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu, marking a crucial phase in the 2026 Assembly elections. In West Bengal, polling started at 7 am across 152 constituencies in the first phase, covering more than half of the state’s total 294 seats. The contest in Bengal is largely seen as a direct and high-stakes face-off between the ruling Trinamool Congress led by Mamata Banerjee and the Bharatiya Janata Party. Early hours witnessed long queues at polling booths, reflecting strong voter enthusiasm. Nearly 3.6 crore voters are eligible to cast their ballots in this phase, with turnout picking up steadily during the morning hours.
In Tamil Nadu, all 234 constituencies are witnessing polling in a single day, with approximately 5.67 crore eligible voters participating. Unlike Bengal’s largely bipolar contest, Tamil Nadu is witnessing a three-cornered battle involving the ruling DMK led by Chief Minister MK Stalin, the AIADMK aligned with the BJP, and actor-politician Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam. The entry of Vijay has added a new dimension to the state’s political landscape, especially among young and urban voters seeking alternatives to traditional Dravidian politics.
High-Voltage Contest In Bengal
The electoral battle in West Bengal continues to be dominated by sharp political narratives and aggressive campaigning. The BJP has focused on issues such as alleged corruption, governance failures, and concerns around illegal infiltration, while also promising welfare measures including a higher monthly stipend for women. On the other hand, the TMC has countered by highlighting its welfare schemes like Lakshmir Bhandar and has strongly criticised the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls, claiming that it affected millions of voters. The party has also leaned on regional identity and cultural issues to consolidate its voter base. Women voters have emerged as a key deciding factor, with both parties attempting to secure their support through targeted promises and outreach.
Key constituencies in Bengal are expected to draw significant attention, including Nandigram, where a fierce contest is underway, and other politically sensitive regions like Berhampore and Mathabhanga. Additionally, the Left Front is attempting to regain lost ground, focusing on younger voters and key regions such as North Bengal and tea garden areas.
Tamil Nadu’s Triangular Fight
Tamil Nadu’s elections present a more complex scenario with three major political forces competing for power. The DMK has framed the election as a referendum on its governance record and welfare policies, while the AIADMK is attempting a comeback after internal challenges and alliance adjustments. Vijay’s TVK has emerged as a fresh political force, generating buzz and potentially reshaping voter dynamics, especially in urban constituencies.
Key seats to watch include Kolathur, where MK Stalin is contesting, and Chepauk-Thiruvallikeni, represented by Udhayanidhi Stalin. Vijay’s debut from constituencies like Tiruchirapalli East and Perambur has added excitement to the race, while senior leaders like Edappadi K Palaniswami and O Panneerselvam are also contesting from their respective strongholds. As voting progresses, both states are witnessing strong participation and heightened political tension. The outcomes of these elections are expected to significantly influence regional power equations and set the tone for national political developments in the coming years.
