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Tiruchirapalli, Tamil Nadu | April 23, 2026
Tamil Nadu School Education Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi cast his vote on Thursday in Tiruchirapalli as polling began for the Assembly elections. Contesting from the Thiruverumbur constituency, he expressed strong confidence in the victory of the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK). He also urged people across Tamil Nadu to participate actively and treat voting as their top priority.
Appeal for Higher Voter Turnout
After casting his vote, Poyyamozhi addressed the media and encouraged citizens to step out early and vote in large numbers. He said that voting is not just a right but a responsibility that every citizen must fulfil. According to him, people should not delay their plans and must visit polling booths as their first task of the day.
“Today is the day to fulfil our democratic duty. I came with my family to vote, and I request everyone to do the same,” he said. He added that choosing a leader requires action, not just opinions, and every vote plays an important role in shaping the future.
Growing Trust Among Voters
Poyyamozhi reflected on his political journey and highlighted how public response has evolved over time. He said that during his first election in 2016, he was new and still understanding people’s expectations. By 2021, voters approached him with questions about pending promises. Now, in 2026, he sees a positive shift, as people appreciate the work completed during his tenure.
He shared that during his recent campaign, he received several petitions from residents. Many of them began with appreciation for completed development work before mentioning new demands. This, he said, shows growing trust and satisfaction among the people.
He added that the warm welcome he receives from voters motivates him further. “People treat me like a member of their own family. That connection gives me confidence about the results,” he said.
Smooth Polling and Security Arrangements
Polling across Tamil Nadu began at 7:00 AM under strict security arrangements. Election authorities deployed adequate personnel to ensure peaceful voting. Officials also confirmed that polling is progressing smoothly at most booths.
Voting will continue until 6:00 PM, and authorities expect a strong turnout throughout the day. The counting of votes will take place on May 4, 2026.
Large Electorate and First-Time Voters
Tamil Nadu Chief Electoral Officer Archana Patnaik shared details about the scale of the elections. The state has more than 5.73 crore voters, including a large number of women and first-time voters.
A significant number of young voters are participating in the elections for the first time, which reflects increasing awareness and engagement in the democratic process. Postal voting has also seen good participation, ensuring that service voters can exercise their rights.
Authorities have set up multiple counting centres across the state to ensure a smooth and transparent counting process.
Tough Political Contest Ahead
The Tamil Nadu Assembly elections have set the stage for a major political battle. The DMK-led alliance is facing strong competition from the AIADMK-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). While the ruling party is highlighting its governance and development work, the opposition is focusing on regaining power.
Adding a new dimension to the contest, actor-turned-politician Vijay has entered the electoral arena with his party Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). His presence has increased public interest and may influence voting patterns in several constituencies.
Tamil Nadu is witnessing a crucial election that will shape its political future. Leaders continue to appeal for higher voter turnout, while citizens participate in large numbers. The final outcome will depend on how actively people exercise their right to vote. All eyes are now on the results, which will be announced on May 4.
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