Chennai: More than 5.73 crore voters are set to determine the electoral prospects of 4,023 candidates contesting in the crucial Tamil Nadu Assembly election scheduled for April 23. The high-stakes contest spans all 234 constituencies across the state.

The two principal Dravidian parties are once again at the centre of the electoral contest. The MK Stalin-led DMK, heading the Secular Progressive Alliance (SPA), is striving to retain power. On the other hand, the AIADMK, under the leadership of Edappadi K Palaniswami, is spearheading the NDA alliance in the state and is aiming to return to office after five years in opposition.

Vijay enters electoral fray

Actor-turned-politician Vijay, founder of TVK, is making his electoral debut by contesting from Perambur and Tiruchirappalli East constituencies.

Voter turnout and polling arrangements

A total electorate of 5,73,43,291 is expected to cast their votes. Campaigning formally ended on April 21, with polling set for Thursday and counting scheduled for May 4.

The Election Commission of India has undertaken extensive voter awareness initiatives aimed at achieving full participation across constituencies.

Security and logistical preparations

Tamil Nadu Chief Electoral Officer Archana Patnaik reviewed polling arrangements during a visit to the control room. The transfer of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) to polling stations is currently underway.

More than 1.40 lakh police personnel have been deployed across the state to ensure security. Additional forces have also been arranged for sensitive polling locations. Individuals from outside constituencies who had participated in campaigning have been directed to return to their respective areas.

International observers to monitor polling

The Election Commission has also launched the second phase of the International Election Visitors' Programme (IEVP) 2026. Delegates will inspect dispatch centres, district control rooms and media monitoring facilities. They are also expected to observe polling proceedings on the morning of April 23.

Strict EVM guidelines and warnings

Officials have instructed all presiding officers to ensure that candidate buttons on EVMs remain clearly visible and are not obstructed in any manner. The use of tape, glue or any material to cover buttons is strictly prohibited.

Additionally, applying colour, ink, perfume or any chemical substance on ballot unit buttons to compromise vote secrecy is not allowed. 

The Election Commission has warned that strict action will be taken against violators, including criminal proceedings and the possibility of ordering a repoll at affected booths.

With agency inputs