Campaigning ends in Assam, Kerala & Puducherry (Internet)
New Delhi: Campaigning for the 2026 Assembly elections in Assam, Kerala, and Puducherry came to a close on Tuesday evening, ushering in the mandatory 48-hour ‘silence period’ before voting on 9 April. The pause marks a decisive phase in the electoral process, giving voters time to reflect and parties an opportunity to fine-tune last-minute strategies behind the scenes.
Silence Period Begins: Strict Curbs in Place
In line with guidelines issued by the Election Commission of India, all forms of public campaigning-including rallies, roadshows, and processions-are now prohibited. Political advertisements across television, radio, and cinema halls will also remain suspended unless pre-approved. Non-local party workers have been directed to vacate constituencies, ensuring a level playing field and peaceful polling environment.
Assam: High-Stakes Battle Across 126 Seats
In Assam, the contest spans 126 Assembly constituencies, with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party seeking another term under Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. The opposition, led by the Indian National Congress and its allies, is mounting a strong challenge, aiming to shift the political balance in the state.
Kerala: Familiar Rivalry, Unpredictable Outcome
In Kerala, the traditional contest between the Left Democratic Front and the United Democratic Front continues across 140 seats. Known for its cyclical power shifts, the state once again heads into a tightly contested election. The campaign concluded with the vibrant ‘Kottikalasam,’ a hallmark of Kerala’s political culture.
Puducherry: Multi-Cornered Contest Adds Uncertainty
The electoral landscape in Puducherry remains complex, with a multi-cornered fight across 33 seats. The Congress-DMK alliance is challenging the BJP-led front, while regional players add further unpredictability to the outcome.
PM Modi Flags ‘Uniform Civil Code and One Nation One Election’ as Key Unfinished Agendas of BJP
Tamil Nadu: Election Momentum Builds
Meanwhile, in Tamil Nadu, the electoral process is gathering pace. Nominations have closed for all 234 Assembly constituencies, with a large number of candidates entering the fray, setting the stage for an intense political battle in the coming weeks.
As the noise of campaigning fades, the focus now shifts to voters, whose decisions in the coming days will determine the political future of these key regions.
