Assembly Elections 2026: Voting Underway in Kerala, Assam, and Puducherry

Voters in Kerala, Assam and Puducherry cast their ballots on April 9, 2026, in a single-phase assembly election to determine the future governance of two states and one union territory. The election process brought over 5.3 crore voters to thousands of polling stations across the three regions, with polling concluding at 6 p.m.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) reported high levels of participation, with Puducherry and Assam recording historic turnout figures. In Puducherry, the ECI published estimates showing a voter turnout of 89.87% as of 9.20 p.m., marking the highest turnout in the history of the Union Territory. Assam registered an estimated record voter turnout of 85.64%.

In Kerala, the estimated voter turnout stood at 78.23%. While final figures are pending, this percentage surpasses the 76% turnout recorded during the 2021 Assembly polls.

Assam Election Dynamics and Incidents

The contest in Assam is primarily bipolar, featuring the BJP-led NDA seeking a third consecutive term under Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. Opposing them is the Congress-led alliance, headed by Gaurav Gogoi, which aims to reclaim power after a decade. Other regional entities, including the AIUDF, Raijor Dal, and Assam Jatiya Parishad, are also expected to influence outcomes in specific constituencies.

The state’s electoral exercise involved approximately 2.5 crore voters, including over 1.25 crore women, senior citizens, and first-time voters, who voted across 31,490 polling stations.

Despite the record turnout, the process in Assam was marred by violence. Reports indicate that around 30 people were injured and seven individuals were arrested in connection with poll-related violence at two locations in the state.

election is already visible – in the hope, pride, and happiness on the faces of our people.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Sarma

Kerala and Puducherry Polling

Kerala’s election covered 140 constituencies, characterized as a battle between continuity and a potential comeback. Polling in Kerala and Puducherry was described as largely peaceful by officials.

Puducherry’s election covered 30 seats, while Assam’s election covered 126 seats. To ensure the smooth conduct of the polls, authorities implemented extensive security measures, webcasting, and specific logistical arrangements.

Voter Turnout Progression

Early data from the morning of April 9, 2026, showed a steady start to the voting process. By 11 a.m., participation was recorded at:

• Assam: 38.92%
• Puducherry: 37.06%
• Kerala: 33.28%

By 3 p.m., polling in Kerala had surpassed 62%, leading the Election Commission to express expectations that the final turnout could reach 90%.

Next Steps and Results

Voting officially closed at 6 p.m. On April 9, 2026. In accordance with election rules, individuals who were already present at polling stations at the closing time were provided tokens and permitted to cast their votes.

The results for the assembly elections in Kerala, Assam, and Puducherry are scheduled to be announced on May 4, 2026.