admin 
Chennai, Tamil Nadu | April 23, 2026
Senior CPI leader D. Raja cast his vote in Chennai on Thursday as polling continued for the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. After voting, he appealed to citizens to participate actively in the democratic process. He also expressed confidence that the DMK-led alliance will secure victory and form the government in the state.
Appeal to Strengthen Democracy
Addressing the media, Raja described voting as a powerful democratic right. Citizens, he said, must take part in elections to shape the country’s future. According to him, higher voter turnout will strengthen democracy and ensure better governance.
“I urge everyone to come out and vote. It is our responsibility,” he stated while encouraging people to visit polling booths early.
Support for DMK Alliance
Confidence in the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK)-led alliance remains strong, Raja noted. Public response during the campaign indicates growing support for the coalition in Tamil Nadu.
In his view, voters are satisfied with governance and welfare measures. This satisfaction, he believes, will translate into electoral success for the alliance.
Strong Remarks Against the BJP
Criticism of the Bharatiya Janata Party also featured prominently in Raja’s statement. He argued that people in Tamil Nadu are resisting the party’s ideology.
Extending his remarks to West Bengal, Raja said voters there must also take a firm stand. In his opinion, Bengal faces a similar political situation and should respond accordingly.
“Just as Tamil Nadu is fighting against the BJP, Bengal must also defeat it,” he remarked.
Polling Continues Across Two States
Elections are currently underway in both Tamil Nadu and West Bengal. Tamil Nadu is voting in a single phase across 234 constituencies. Meanwhile, West Bengal has begun Phase 1 polling, covering 152 seats.
Security arrangements remain tight at polling stations. Authorities continue to monitor sensitive areas to ensure peaceful voting.
Early Voter Turnout Trends
Initial turnout figures show steady participation. By 9:00 AM, Tamil Nadu recorded 17.69% voting. Tiruppur led with 20.38%, followed by Erode at 19.55%. Chennai reported 16.51% turnout.
West Bengal reported 18.76% turnout in Phase 1. Paschim Mednipur reached 20.51%, Bankura recorded 20.20%, and Jhargram stood at 19.84%.
Officials expect voter participation to increase as the day progresses.
Leaders Participate in Voting
Prominent leaders joined the voting process early in the day. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin cast his vote and encouraged public participation.
Actor-turned-politician Vijay also exercised his franchise. Their participation helped boost awareness and voter engagement.
Election Scale and Arrangements
Tamil Nadu has over 5.73 crore voters, making it one of the largest electoral exercises in the country. Chief Electoral Officer Archana Patnaik confirmed that arrangements are in place for smooth voting.
First-time voters and service voters are also participating in large numbers. Authorities have established multiple counting centres for efficient result processing.
D Raja’s remarks highlight the political messaging during the elections. Leaders continue to appeal for higher turnout while expressing confidence in their alliances. As voting continues, public participation will determine the final outcome. The results, scheduled for May 4, will shape the political direction of the states.
About The Author
