By Our Correspondent
BHUBANESWAR: Voting has concluded in the 2026 Assembly elections for West Bengal, Assam, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Puducherry. Polling occurred on these dates: Assam, Kerala, and Puducherry on April 9 (single phase); Tamil Nadu on April 23 (single phase); and West Bengal in two phases on April 23 and 29. Vote counting and official results are scheduled for May 4, 2026. No final results are available yet, but exit polls and pre-poll surveys provide the latest projections.
Exit polls can vary by agency and have historically shown inaccuracies (especially in close races like West Bengal or Tamil Nadu). Factors like alliances, regional swings, turnout patterns, and last-minute shifts can influence final results. Official tallies on May 4 will confirm the winners, seat shares, and any coalition formations.
These elections are significant for testing national trends, regional incumbency, and the rise of new players like TVK in Tamil Nadu. For the latest official updates after May 4, check the Election Commission of India or reliable news sources.
Here are the expected outcomes based on recent exit polls (as of April 29-30, 2026):
West Bengal (294 seats)
Expected winner: BJP-led alliance appears to have a slight edge in most exit polls, though it is projected as a tight contest with TMC.
Projections: BJP around 142–171 seats (some polls like Chanakya Strategies: 150–160; Matrize: 146–161); TMC (All India Trinamool Congress) around 99–145 seats (often 125–140).
This suggests BJP could form the government if it crosses the majority mark (~148 seats), but the race remains close with possibilities of a narrow outcome or hung assembly. TMC, led by Mamata Banerjee, is the incumbent seeking another term. High turnout was reported, and key symbolic contests (like Bhabanipur) are being closely watched.
Tamil Nadu (234 seats, majority: 118)
Expected winner: DMK-led SPA (Secular Progressive Alliance), with a slight to moderate edge for retaining power under Chief Minister M.K. Stalin.
Projections: DMK+ around 125–162 seats (e.g., 140–162 in some polls; one projection 148–162); AIADMK+ 52–85; Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK, led by actor Vijay) as a notable third force with 10–26 seats.
It is viewed as a competitive three-cornered contest, but most exit polls favor DMK continuity over an AIADMK comeback or TVK breakthrough. Record turnout (~84–85%) was noted.
Kerala (140 seats, majority: 71)
Expected winner: UDF (United Democratic Front, Congress-led), ending LDF’s rule and preventing a rare third consecutive term for the Left.
Projections: UDF widely favored at 71–94 seats (many polls 75–93, e.g., Axis My India 83–93); LDF (ruling Left Democratic Front under Pinarayi Vijayan) 44–69; NDA (BJP-led) low single digits (often 1–7).
This points to a UDF victory or comfortable majority in a traditionally alternating state. High turnout (~78%) and anti-incumbency factors are cited in surveys.
Assam (126 seats, majority: 64)
Expected winner: BJP-led NDA (with allies like AGP), comfortably returning to power for a third term under Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.
Projections: BJP+ often in the 85–96+ range (some polls 80–90 or higher), with Congress-led alliance in the 25–39 range and others minimal.
The ruling NDA is seen as strong across regions, building on its 2021 performance. Exit polls indicate a clear majority without major surprises.
Puducherry (30 seats, majority: 16)
Expected winner: NDA (AINRC-BJP led), with incumbent Chief Minister N. Rangaswamy’s alliance likely retaining power.
Projections: NDA often 16–19+ seats; Congress-DMK alliance trailing. Record turnout (~87–90%) was reported.
The contest pits the ruling NDA against the Congress-DMK bloc, with NDA holding a clear lead in exit polls.
