Tamil Nadu experienced a significant increase in voter participation during the Assembly elections, with a turnout of 82.24% by 5 p.m., surpassing the final polling percentage of the 2021 elections. The rising turnout throughout the day showcased strong voter enthusiasm in both urban and rural areas, despite hot weather conditions prevailing in various parts of the state.
As the voting entered its final hour, the Election Commission of India (ECI) issued a last-minute appeal to voters, especially in Chennai, to come to polling stations and cast their votes. In Chennai, notable political figures like AIADMK candidate D. Jayakumar and BJP leader Khushbu Sundar exercised their voting rights and encouraged citizens to actively engage in the democratic process by displaying their ink-marked fingers.
In remote regions, including Kanniyakumari district, members of the Kani tribal community overcame logistical challenges to vote. Residents from isolated hill hamlets crossed the Pechiparai dam by boat to access polling stations due to the lack of road connectivity caused by high water levels. The district administration facilitated their participation by arranging special boats and providing life jackets, emphasizing the marginalized communities’ strong commitment to democracy.
Amid the ongoing polling, political reactions emerged, with MDMK leader Vaiko expressing confidence in the DMK-led alliance’s victory with a projected outcome of securing over 200 seats in the 234-member Assembly. As the polling concludes, authorities are now focused on ensuring a smooth electoral process completion, awaiting the electorate’s decision in Tamil Nadu.
