Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections 2026: Final candidate list stands at 4,023 after scrutiny

Chennai: The Tamil Nadu Assembly elections 2026 have entered a decisive phase, with 4,023 candidates finalised across the state following the completion of nomination scrutiny and withdrawals, election officials said.

The nomination process, which began on March 30, saw a strong response, with 7,599 nomination papers filed over four days, highlighting intense political activity ahead of the Tamil Nadu polls 2026.

Over 2,400 nominations rejected during scrutiny

During the scrutiny stage, around 2,460 nominations were rejected due to incomplete or invalid documentation, significantly reducing the number of candidates in the Tamil Nadu election contest.

Karur sees the highest candidates, Ambasamudram the lowest

Among constituencies, Karur has emerged as the most crowded seat with 79 candidates, reflecting fierce electoral competition. It is followed by Perambur (47 candidates), Kolathur (35) and Paramathi-Velur (31).

At the other end, Ambasamudram has the lowest number of candidates at just five, while Udhagamandalam, Gudalur and Coonoor have six candidates each, indicating less crowded contests in these constituencies.

Key leaders in fray for Tamil Nadu polls

Several prominent political figures are contesting in the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. Chief Minister M K Stalin is contesting from Kolathur, while Edappadi K Palaniswami is seeking re-election from Edappadi.

Actor-turned-politician Joseph Vijay, Seeman, and Udhayanidhi Stalin are also among the key contenders shaping the Tamil Nadu election battle.

Other prominent candidates include Premalatha Vijayakanth, along with senior leaders such as Duraimurugan, K N Nehru, E V Velu and I Periyasamy.

Higher contest count than the 2021 polls

In comparison, the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections 2021 saw 7,255 nominations filed, with 3,998 candidates contesting. The marginal rise to 4,023 candidates this year reflects increased political participation and competition.

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Polling on April 23, counting on May 4

Voting for the 234-member Tamil Nadu Assembly is scheduled for April 23, with Tamil Nadu election results 2026 set to be announced on May 4.

To ensure a free and fair election, the Election Commission of India has deployed 176 general and police observers and 150 expenditure observers to monitor campaign activities and spending patterns.

Officials said strict vigilance will be maintained to prevent violations and uphold transparency in the Tamil Nadu elections 2026.

IANS