Voting for the high-stakes Assembly Elections 2026 is underway across Assam, Kerala, and Puducherry, with steady participation recorded by 2 pm on Thursday (April 9). According to the Election Commission of India, Assam has logged a voter turnout of 59.63%, Kerala 49.70%, and Puducherry 56.83% by mid-afternoon.
Polling began at 7 am across all three regions. Voting will continue until 5 pm in Assam, while Kerala and Puducherry voters can cast their ballots until 6 pm.
In Kerala, the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF), led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, is aiming for a historic third consecutive term in power. The state has a total of 140 assembly seats, with 883 candidates in the fray. The electorate includes approximately 1.32 crore men, 1.39 crore women, and 273 transgender voters, reflecting a diverse and sizable voting population.
In Assam, the contest is primarily between the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the Congress-led alliance. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma is seeking a third straight term for the NDA. The state has 126 assembly constituencies, with 722 candidates competing for voter support. Around 2.50 crore eligible voters are expected to decide the outcome.
In Puducherry, the electoral battle is also between the NDA and the opposition alliance comprising the Congress and the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK). Chief Minister N. Rangasamy is aiming to retain power for a second consecutive term. The Union Territory has 30 assembly seats, with 294 candidates contesting. Over 9.5 lakh voters are eligible to cast their votes in this crucial election.
The elections in these three regions are seen as politically significant, with outcomes likely to influence regional dynamics and national political narratives. Early turnout trends suggest active voter participation, and officials expect the numbers to rise further as polling progresses through the day.
The counting of votes will take place on a later date, with results keenly awaited across the political spectrum.
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