Bengal & Tamil Nadu Polls: High Voter Turnout, Leaders Cast Votes
TVK's Vijay held a major workers conference in Madurai on Thursday! (Image TVK IT Wing)
Brisk polling in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu; Leaders Voice Confidence
By NIRENDRA DEV
Kolkata, April 23, 2026 — Polling commenced across key constituencies in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu on Thursday, with prominent political leaders, actors, and candidates casting their votes amid tight security and enthusiastic voter participation.
Leader of Opposition in West Bengal, Suvendu Adhikari, struck a combative tone, asserting that a political shift is inevitable. “Parivartan hoga. If a change does not take place this time, Sanatana in Bengal will be finished,” he said. Contesting from Nandigram and Bhabanipur, Adhikari also alleged irregularities, claiming that a polling agent had been arrested and urging the Election Commission to take immediate action.
Meanwhile, criticism of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee intensified from BJP leaders. In Asansol, BJP candidate Agnimitra Paul, after casting her vote, said, “This is a war to save Bengal. You are a failure as a Chief Minister and must leave the seat.” She added that voters are seeking employment opportunities and the return of migrants who left the state.
From the Congress camp, Mausam Noor expressed confidence, highlighting peaceful polling so far. “As a family, we are all going together to cast our votes. This strengthens my resolve and confidence,” she said.
In Murshidabad, Humayun Kabir, founder of the Aam Janata Unnayan Party, noted that this election marks the first time his party is contesting. He emphasized the need for maintaining law and order during the polls.
Tamil Nadu Witnesses Strong Participation by Leaders and Celebrities
In Tamil Nadu, voting saw participation from political leaders and film personalities alike. Actor-turned-politician Vijay cast his vote in Chennai, drawing significant public attention.
Makkal Needhi Maiam chief Kamal Haasan, accompanied by his daughter Shruti Haasan, voted at a polling booth in Alwarpet. Union Minister of State L. Murugan also cast his vote in Chennai.
Senior Congress leader P. Chidambaram urged young voters to back stability and governance. “They should vote for a stable government, for growth and welfare measures delivered over the last five years,” he said, expressing confidence in the DMK-led alliance.
AIADMK leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) termed the election crucial, stating it could end “family dynasty” politics and improve law and order.
BJP candidate Tamilisai Soundararajan, contesting from Mylapore, described voting as a “democratic celebration” and expressed confidence in the NDA’s prospects. She faces a contest from DMK’s D. Velu.
Actor Ajith Kumar and BJP leader Khushbu Sundar also exercised their franchise. Khushbu addressed a recent bomb threat at her residence, calling such incidents “part and parcel” of political life while thanking the police for swift action.
Election Commission Monitoring, Peaceful Voting Reported
The Election Commission reported largely peaceful polling across both states. In West Bengal, international delegates under the IEVP 2026 initiative visited polling stations in Darjeeling district, underscoring global interest in India’s democratic process.
With high-stakes contests underway, both West Bengal and Tamil Nadu are witnessing a crucial electoral battle marked by sharp rhetoric, strong voter turnout, and intense political competition.
Follow The Raisina Hills on WhatsApp, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and LinkedIn
About The Author
