Tamil Nadu Election 2026: Campaign Ends Today at 6 PM, Silence Period Begins
The election campaign for the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly elections will officially conclude at 6 PM today, as per the directives of the Election Commission of India. Following this, a mandatory 48-hour silence period will come into effect until 6 PM on polling day, April 23.
The elections will be held in a single phase across Tamil Nadu, with extensive preparations already in place. Authorities have intensified monitoring, and flying squads along with surveillance teams have seized cash and goods worth over ₹1,213 crore so far.
Key Election Details:
- Total candidates: 4,023
- Eligible voters: 5.73 crore
- Polling stations: 75,064
- Over 1 lakh voting machines (EVMs) and VVPAT units deployed
To ensure smooth polling, facilities like drinking water, toilets, and ramps for differently abled voters have been arranged at all booths. Additionally, over 500 mobile medical teams have been deployed due to rising heat conditions.
Silence Period Guidelines:
During the 48-hour silence period:
- No public meetings, rallies, or campaign activities are allowed
- Political content cannot be broadcast or shared via TV, radio, social - media, or messaging platforms
- Violations may lead to up to 2 years imprisonment, fine, or both
Non-local political workers and party functionaries must leave their respective constituencies before 6 PM today.
TASMAC Closure:
As part of election regulations, TASMAC liquor shops and bars will remain closed from 10 AM today until midnight on April 23.
Security Arrangements:
- 83,875 police personnel deployed
- 40,427 government staff engaged in election duty
- 300 companies of paramilitary forces ensuring security
The Election Commission has emphasized strict adherence to rules to ensure free and fair elections across the state.
