Assembly Elections 2026: PM Modi calls voting “sacred democratic duty”, urges record turnout in Tamil Nadu and Bengal polls
In separate posts on X, the Prime Minister made a special appeal to youth and women to participate enthusiastically and achieve a record turnout.
Follow West Bengal Assembly Elections Phase 1 Voting Live Updates
Prime Minister Modi said, “As the people of Tamil Nadu prepare to vote in the Assembly elections, I appeal to all voters to fulfill this sacred democratic duty with great enthusiasm. I especially appeal to the youth and women of Tamil Nadu to vote in large numbers and pave the way for record voter turnout.”
He conveyed a similar message to West Bengal, where the first phase of voting was ongoing, urging people to participate in what he called the “festival of democracy”.
“The first phase of voting for the West Bengal Assembly elections is today. I appeal to all citizens to participate in this festival of democracy with full enthusiasm. I especially appeal to my young friends and women of West Bengal to vote in large numbers.” he said.
Voting began on Thursday amid tight security in both Tamil Nadu and West Bengal. Voting will continue until 18:00. Follow Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections Voting Live Updates
Before voting began, mock polls were conducted at polling stations in both states.
Tamil Nadu is voting in a single phase for all 234 Assembly constituencies.
West Bengal is witnessing a two-phase election for 294 Assembly seats. The first phase covers 152 constituencies, while the second phase is planned for April 29.
According to the Election Commission of India, a total of 1,478 candidates are competing in the first phase.
The counting of votes will be done on May 4.
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