New Delhi: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced the schedule for the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections 2026, setting the stage for a major political contest in one of the country’s most politically active states. Elections will be held to elect representatives for all 234 seats of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly. A party or alliance needs at least 118 seats to secure a majority and form the government
The Election Commission of India (ECI) today announced the schedule for the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly elections 2026. With this, the model code of conduct across the state has been implemented with immediate effect. The polls will decide the fate of 234 assembly constituencies, with the current assembly’s term ending on May 10, 2026.
According to the ECI notification, the issuance of the poll notification will take place on 30 March, 2026, the last date for filing nominations is 06 April, 2026. Scrutiny of papers will be held on 07 April, 2026, while the last date for withdrawal of candidatures is 09 April, 2026. Polling will be conducted on 23 April, 2026 in single phase and the counting of votes will take place on 4 May, 2026.
2026 Tamil Nadu elections
The 2026 elections carry high stakes as the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) seeks a rare second consecutive term, a feat achieved only once by the AIADMK in recent decades. Chief Minister MK Stalin’s DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance (SPA) has expanded greatly, now comprising over 20 parties.
Key allies include the Indian National Congress (INC), Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), CPI, CPI(M), Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK), and several smaller outfits representing various communities. The alliance is banking on its welfare schemes, infrastructure push and Dravidian ideology to counter anti-incumbency.
Opposition parties
The main opposition comprises the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) under Edappadi K. Palaniswami, allied with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the NDA framework. This combine focuses on governance critiques, alleged corruption, and law-and-order concerns to challenge the incumbent.
Adding intrigue is actor-turned-politician Vijay and his Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), which is contesting independently as a potential third front. TVK has firmly rejected alliance rumors with the NDA or others, vowing to fight all 234 seats on its own. Vijay, declared the party’s chief ministerial face, has begun interviewing ticket aspirants, with candidate selection underway and plans for statewide outreach, mega rallies and a strong anti-DMK campaign. TVK positions itself as a fresh alternative emphasising youth, social justice, and Tamil identity.