Campaigning ends under strict norms, over 53 million voters set to decide fate of 296 seats across three key regions in single-phase polling on April 9
New Delhi: The stage is set for a crucial electoral showdown as assembly elections in Kerala, Assam, and Puducherry will be held on April 9 in a single phase, with results scheduled to be declared on May 4. Campaigning officially concluded on Tuesday evening, marking the beginning of the mandatory silence period under election law.
A total of 296 assembly seats are at stake, including 126 in Assam, 140 in Kerala, and 30 in Puducherry, making this one of the most closely watched electoral contests of 2026.
Massive Voter Turnout Expected Across States
In Assam, nearly 25 million voters, including 12.5 million men, 12.5 million women, and 343 transgender voters, are eligible to cast their votes. Notably, a significant number of first-time voters aged 18–19 are expected to participate. A total of 722 candidates are contesting, with 64 seats required for a majority. The term of the current assembly is set to end on May 20, 2026.
Kerala is witnessing a high-voltage triangular contest, with 890 candidates in the fray for 140 seats. The state has around 27.1 million voters, including 13.2 million men, 13.9 million women, and 273 transgender voters. A party or alliance needs 71 seats to form the government.
In Puducherry, elections are being held for 30 seats, including five reserved for Scheduled Castes. With a voter base of 9.44 lakh, comprising approximately 4.43 lakh men, 5 lakh women, and 139 third-gender voters, the Union Territory requires 16 seats for a majority.
Campaign Silence Period Enforced
All campaign activities came to a halt at 6 PM on April 7, in compliance with Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951. The law strictly prohibits public meetings, rallies, processions, and any form of voter influence during the 48 hours leading up to polling.
Authorities have also imposed a ban on cultural events, theatrical performances, and the broadcast of election-related content across television and electronic media platforms to ensure free and fair voting.
Other States Gear Up for Polls
Meanwhile, political activity continues to intensify in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal. Tamil Nadu will go to the polls in a single phase on April 23, while West Bengal will conduct elections in two phases on April 23 and April 29, setting the stage for an extended electoral season.
High-Stakes Battle Ahead
With millions of voters ready to exercise their democratic rights, the outcome of these elections is expected to have significant political implications at both state and national levels. All eyes are now on April 9 as the decisive voting day approaches.
