Chennai: With the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly elections 2026 nearing, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has intensified monitoring to ensure free, fair and transparent elections across the state.

A robust network of observers has been deployed, including 136 General Observers, 40 Police Observers, and 151 Expenditure Observers, covering all 234 Assembly constituencies. Contact details for these officials have been shared via District Election Officers, allowing citizens, parties, and candidates to report election violations or grievances directly.

Seizures cross ₹75 crore under stricter monitoring

As part of enhanced expenditure and election code enforcement, authorities have cracked down on illegal inducements such as cash, liquor, drugs, and freebies. Total seizures have reached ₹75.03 crore, including:

  • ₹23.74 crore in cash
  • ₹0.51 crore in liquor
  • ₹5.63 crore in drugs and narcotics
  • ₹23.19 crore in precious metals
  • ₹21.96 crore in other items and freebies

These measures are aimed at curbing malpractices and ensuring compliance with Tamil Nadu election regulations.

SUVIDHA portal streamlines election procedures

The ECI’s SUVIDHA portal continues to assist candidates and political parties with online nomination filing, scheduling submission slots, and applying for permissions for public rallies and campaign activities. Out of 2,443 applications received, 737 have been processed within the prescribed timelines, while others remain under review. Candidates must complete the online process and submit printed copies with required documents to the Returning Officer.

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Voter verification urged ahead of elections

Officials have called on all eligible voters to verify their names in the electoral roll to ensure participation in the democratic process. Citizens can check their status online or apply for inclusion via Form-6, either offline with Electoral Registration Officers or through digital platforms. The last date for enrolment is March 26, 2026.

Additional support services, including the “Book a Call with BLO” facility and dedicated mobile applications, have been highlighted to assist voters. The Chief Electoral Officer of Tamil Nadu stressed that timely verification and enrolment are key to a smooth and orderly election process.

IANS