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THE TIMES OF INDIA | Apr 29, 2026, 19:10:47 IST
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Puducherry Exit Poll 2026 Live Updates: Record turnout, VVIP battles and multi-cornered contests set stage for key verdict
Puducherry Exit Poll 2026 Live Updates: Puducherry’s 2026 Assembly elections have emerged as one of the most closely watched contests in the Union Territory’s recent political history, driven by record voter participation, high-profile constituency battles and the rise of new political forces. The Union Territory recorded an impressive 89.83 percent turnout, with several constituencies crossing the 90 percent mark, reflecting strong public engagement and heightened political mobilisation.
The election is fundamentally a contest between the NDA led by AINRC and BJP, and the SPA led by Congress and DMK. However, the emergence of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) has added a fresh layer of uncertainty in many seats, especially urban constituencies and areas with younger electorates. TVK’s presence has transformed several traditional two-way contests into triangular battles, making projections more complex than in previous elections.
Among the most high-profile races is Mangalam, where Chief Minister N. Rangasamy entered the fray, turning the seat into a VVIP battleground. Thattanchavady witnessed another marquee clash, with Rangasamy defending his traditional stronghold while facing veteran leader V. Vaithilingam. In Mannadipet, incumbent A Namassivayam faced a heavyweight challenge from former MLA TPR Selvame, while Ozhukarai and Villianur also saw contests involving senior political figures.
Several constituencies registered historic turnout numbers. Oussudu posted 94.39 percent turnout, Mangalam 94.14 percent, Bahour 93.99 percent, Nettapakkam 93.65 percent, Mannadipet 93.59 percent and Yanam 93.24 percent. These numbers suggest an electorate highly energised by competitive local contests and alliance dynamics.
The Karaikal, Mahe and Yanam regions also remain crucial in determining the final balance of power. Yanam, with its Telugu-speaking electorate, saw a rematch involving Malladi Krishna Rao and sitting MLA Gollapalli Srinivas Ashok. Mahe, the Puducherry enclave within Kerala, saw a three-way contest involving Congress, BJP and TVK-backed forces.
As Puducherry awaits exit poll projections, the central question remains whether the ruling NDA can retain power, whether the Congress-DMK combine can stage a comeback, or whether TVK can emerge as a decisive spoiler. With many seats expected to witness close margins, even small vote shifts may significantly alter the final outcome.
The election is fundamentally a contest between the NDA led by AINRC and BJP, and the SPA led by Congress and DMK. However, the emergence of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) has added a fresh layer of uncertainty in many seats, especially urban constituencies and areas with younger electorates. TVK’s presence has transformed several traditional two-way contests into triangular battles, making projections more complex than in previous elections.
Among the most high-profile races is Mangalam, where Chief Minister N. Rangasamy entered the fray, turning the seat into a VVIP battleground. Thattanchavady witnessed another marquee clash, with Rangasamy defending his traditional stronghold while facing veteran leader V. Vaithilingam. In Mannadipet, incumbent A Namassivayam faced a heavyweight challenge from former MLA TPR Selvame, while Ozhukarai and Villianur also saw contests involving senior political figures.
Several constituencies registered historic turnout numbers. Oussudu posted 94.39 percent turnout, Mangalam 94.14 percent, Bahour 93.99 percent, Nettapakkam 93.65 percent, Mannadipet 93.59 percent and Yanam 93.24 percent. These numbers suggest an electorate highly energised by competitive local contests and alliance dynamics.
The Karaikal, Mahe and Yanam regions also remain crucial in determining the final balance of power. Yanam, with its Telugu-speaking electorate, saw a rematch involving Malladi Krishna Rao and sitting MLA Gollapalli Srinivas Ashok. Mahe, the Puducherry enclave within Kerala, saw a three-way contest involving Congress, BJP and TVK-backed forces.
As Puducherry awaits exit poll projections, the central question remains whether the ruling NDA can retain power, whether the Congress-DMK combine can stage a comeback, or whether TVK can emerge as a decisive spoiler. With many seats expected to witness close margins, even small vote shifts may significantly alter the final outcome.
19:10 (IST) Apr 29
Kerala exit poll live: Kasaragod reflects border district political mood
Kasaragod constituency remains a key northern battleground with strong symbolic and strategic importance. The seat combines coastal belts, inland regions and border communities, creating a politically layered electorate. Exit poll inputs indicate a competitive triangular race involving the UDF, LDF and BJP. Voters in the constituency have focused heavily on road infrastructure, healthcare, transport access, youth employment and welfare concerns. Kasaragod’s result may also help decode whether the UDF is regaining traction in border districts or whether the LDF’s organisational strength remains intact. With minority and multilingual voter blocs carrying significant influence, the constituency could be pivotal in shaping the narrative from north Kerala on counting day.
19:10 (IST) Apr 29
Puducherry exit poll 2026: Thirubhuvanai turns into three-cornered reserved seat contest
Thirubhuvanai witnessed a high-stakes battle as incumbent P Angalane, now with the DMK-led alliance, sought to defend his seat against long-time rival B Kobiga of AINRC. The contest took an unexpected turn with the entry of AK Sai J Saravanan under the TVK banner, adding a third serious contender. A reserved constituency with expanding peri-urban settlements and farming communities, Thirubhuvanai has seen fluctuating fortunes over the years. In 2021, Angalane won as an Independent by 2,359 votes, while Kobiga had won in 2016 by 1,432 votes. Voter turnout in 2026 stood at around 87.10 percent, slightly lower than 89.6 percent in the previous election. Exit poll watchers are closely studying whether TVK’s presence split votes or whether the traditional rivalry between Angalane and Kobiga remained decisive.
18:26 (IST) Apr 29
Puducherry exit poll 2026: Mannadipet sees heavyweight battle and record turnout
Mannadipet has emerged as one of Puducherry’s most closely watched constituencies after a high-voltage contest between incumbent A Namassivayam of the BJP-led NDA and former MLA TPR Selvame, now contesting for Congress. The race was further sharpened by TVK candidate K Bharathidasan, who focused on youth mobilisation. Known for narrow electoral finishes, Mannadipet has a history of intense contests. In 2021, Namassivayam won by 2,750 votes, while in 2016 Selvame had prevailed by just 419 votes. The constituency recorded a historic 93.59 percent turnout in 2026, significantly higher than the 89.1 percent seen in 2021, making it one of the highest-turnout seats in the Union Territory. With its mix of agrarian and semi-urban voters, Mannadipet may become a key indicator of whether the NDA retained momentum or the Congress-led opposition made gains.
17:45 (IST) Apr 29
Puducherry exit poll 2026: Mannadipet sees heavyweight battle and record turnout
Mannadipet has emerged as one of Puducherry’s most closely watched constituencies after a high-voltage contest between incumbent A Namassivayam of the BJP-led NDA and former MLA TPR Selvame, now contesting for Congress. The race was further sharpened by TVK candidate K Bharathidasan, who focused on youth mobilisation. Known for narrow electoral finishes, Mannadipet has a history of intense contests. In 2021, Namassivayam won by 2,750 votes, while in 2016 Selvame had prevailed by just 419 votes. The constituency recorded a historic 93.59 percent turnout in 2026, significantly higher than the 89.1 percent seen in 2021, making it one of the highest-turnout seats in the Union Territory. With its mix of agrarian and semi-urban voters, Mannadipet may become a key indicator of whether the NDA retained momentum or the Congress-led opposition made gains.
17:14 (IST) Apr 29
Puducherry Exit Poll 2026: All eyes on evening projections before May 4 count
With polling complete and turnout exceptionally high, all eyes are now on Puducherry’s exit poll projections expected this evening. The contest pits the NDA led by AINRC-BJP against the Congress-DMK alliance, while TVK’s emergence has added unpredictability. Several constituencies are expected to witness close margins, making projections especially significant. While exit polls are not official results, they often shape political narratives ahead of counting day. The final verdict for all 30 Assembly seats will be declared on May 4.
16:13 (IST) Apr 29
Puducherry Exit Poll 2026: TVK emerges as wildcard across multiple seats
Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam has emerged as a major wildcard in Puducherry, contesting in several high-profile constituencies and reshaping traditional two-way battles into triangular contests. From Mannadipet and Villianur to Lawspet and Oupalam, TVK candidates have targeted youth voters and urban constituencies. While the party may not need to win many seats to influence the final outcome, even modest vote shares could affect margins dramatically. Exit polls expected later today may indicate whether TVK has become a spoiler, kingmaker or a growing third force in Puducherry politics.
15:54 (IST) Apr 29
Puducherry Exit Poll 2026: Yanam turnout crosses 93% in high-profile rematch
Yanam, the Telugu-speaking Puducherry enclave within Andhra Pradesh, recorded a striking 93.24 percent turnout. The constituency saw a rematch of sorts between veteran leader Malladi Krishna Rao and sitting MLA Gollapalli Srinivas Ashok, who had pulled off a surprise win in 2021. Yanam’s distinct political culture often differs sharply from mainland Puducherry trends, making it a seat to watch closely. Strong turnout suggests high interest in the rematch. Exit polls later this evening could reveal whether Yanam swings back to old leadership or stays with the incumbent.
15:20 (IST) Apr 29
Puducherry Election Opinion Poll 2026: Urban seats witness strong mobilisation across territory
Puducherry’s urban constituencies saw a major rise in voter participation, signalling strong mobilisation in city centres. Ozhukarai recorded 87.83 percent turnout, Lawspet touched 88 percent, Kamaraj Nagar reached 88.14 percent and Raj Bhavan surged to 87.89 percent. Urban seats are often politically significant because they contain mixed electorates, professional classes and younger voters. TVK’s entry is believed to have added energy in several of these constituencies. Exit poll estimates later this evening may indicate whether urban voters leaned toward continuity, change or disruption.
15:03 (IST) Apr 29
Puducherry Election Opinion Poll 2026: Oussudu among top turnout seats at 94.39%
Oussudu recorded one of the highest voter turnout figures in Puducherry at 94.39 percent, reflecting extraordinary participation in a constituency with a history of changing political fortunes. Former MLA E Theeppainthan, Congress challenger P Karthikeyan and TVK candidate S Saraganabava made it a three-cornered contest. The seat combines rural settlements with environmentally significant zones, making local development issues central to campaigning. Strong turnout often signals a competitive race, and exit poll projections later today may reveal which alliance gained the upper hand here.
15:02 (IST) Apr 29
Puducherry Exit Poll 2026: Mannadipet posts 93.59% turnout in heavyweight contest
Mannadipet, known for closely fought elections, delivered one of the highest turnout figures in Puducherry at 93.59 percent. The constituency witnessed a major contest between incumbent A Namassivayam and former MLA TPR Selvame, with TVK also in the race. The seat has a history of narrow victories, making the turnout surge especially significant. High participation in semi-urban and agrarian pockets suggests intense mobilisation by all camps. Exit poll trends later today could show whether the NDA held firm or whether the opposition benefited from anti-incumbency.
15:02 (IST) Apr 29
Puducherry Exit Poll 2026: Thattanchavady sees clash of veteran heavyweights
Thattanchavady became one of the most watched contests of the election after Chief Minister N. Rangasamy faced veteran leader V. Vaithilingam. The high-stakes showdown brought together two of Puducherry’s most influential political figures in a constituency known for its strategic importance. Adding complexity to the contest was a third challenger backed by TVK. The constituency recorded 82.44 percent turnout, a clear jump from the previous election. Exit poll numbers later this evening will indicate whether Rangasamy retained his stronghold or if the opposition pulled off a major upset.
15:01 (IST) Apr 29
Puducherry Exit Poll 2026: Mangalam turns VVIP battleground with Rangasamy in fray
Mangalam emerged as one of the most high-profile seats in Puducherry after Chief Minister N. Rangasamy chose to contest from the constituency alongside his traditional base. His entry transformed the seat into a marquee battle against opposition challengers and TVK’s presence. Mangalam also recorded an impressive 94.14 percent turnout, among the highest in the Union Territory. Political observers are closely watching whether Rangasamy’s personal appeal and governance record can carry the seat or whether the opposition has made inroads. Exit polls later today may provide the first clues from this key battleground.
15:01 (IST) Apr 29
Puducherry Exit Poll 2026: Record 89.83% turnout sets stage for tight verdict
Puducherry recorded a remarkable 89.83 percent voter turnout in the 2026 Assembly elections, one of the highest in recent years. The strong participation indicates heightened political interest across urban, rural and enclave regions. More than a dozen constituencies crossed the 90 percent mark, underlining the intensity of the contest. High turnout often becomes a decisive factor in closely fought seats, especially in Puducherry where margins can be narrow. Exit poll projections expected later today will offer the first broad indication of whether the turnout wave favoured the ruling NDA, the Congress-DMK alliance, or new entrant TVK.
Puducherry Exit Poll 2026 Live Updates: Puducherry’s 2026 Assembly elections have turned into one of the most closely watched political contests in the Union Territory’s recent history, driven by record voter turnout, high-profile constituency battles and the rise of a new political force. The Union Territory recorded an impressive 89.83 percent turnout, with several constituencies crossing the 90 percent mark, signalling strong voter enthusiasm and intense political mobilisation across urban, rural and enclave regions.
The principal contest remains between the ruling NDA alliance led by AINRC and BJP, and the opposition Secular Progressive Alliance led by Congress and DMK. However, the entry of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) has added a fresh layer of uncertainty, especially in urban constituencies and among younger voters. TVK’s presence has transformed several traditional two-cornered contests into triangular battles, making exit poll projections more difficult than in previous elections.
Among the most high-profile races is Mangalam, where Chief Minister N. Rangasamy entered the fray, turning the constituency into a VVIP battleground. Thattanchavady has also drawn major attention, with Rangasamy defending his political stronghold while facing veteran leader V. Vaithilingam. Mannadipet saw incumbent A Namassivayam challenged by former MLA TPR Selvame, while seats like Ozhukarai, Villianur and Lawspet featured heavyweight contests involving senior leaders and TVK candidates.
Several constituencies posted historic turnout numbers. Oussudu recorded 94.39 percent turnout, Mangalam 94.14 percent, Bahour 93.99 percent, Nettapakkam 93.65 percent, Mannadipet 93.59 percent and Yanam 93.24 percent. Such strong participation suggests a highly energised electorate and indicates that many seats could witness close finishes.
Regional pockets such as Karaikal, Mahe and Yanam may prove decisive in the final arithmetic. Yanam saw a high-profile rematch involving veteran leader Malladi Krishna Rao and sitting MLA Gollapalli Srinivas Ashok, while Mahe witnessed a three-way contest involving Congress, BJP and TVK-backed forces.
As Puducherry awaits exit poll projections this evening, the central question is whether the NDA can retain power, whether the Congress-DMK alliance can engineer a comeback, or whether TVK can emerge as a spoiler or surprise force. With many constituencies expected to witness narrow margins, even small vote swings could significantly alter the final outcome when votes are counted on May 4.
The principal contest remains between the ruling NDA alliance led by AINRC and BJP, and the opposition Secular Progressive Alliance led by Congress and DMK. However, the entry of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) has added a fresh layer of uncertainty, especially in urban constituencies and among younger voters. TVK’s presence has transformed several traditional two-cornered contests into triangular battles, making exit poll projections more difficult than in previous elections.
Among the most high-profile races is Mangalam, where Chief Minister N. Rangasamy entered the fray, turning the constituency into a VVIP battleground. Thattanchavady has also drawn major attention, with Rangasamy defending his political stronghold while facing veteran leader V. Vaithilingam. Mannadipet saw incumbent A Namassivayam challenged by former MLA TPR Selvame, while seats like Ozhukarai, Villianur and Lawspet featured heavyweight contests involving senior leaders and TVK candidates.
Several constituencies posted historic turnout numbers. Oussudu recorded 94.39 percent turnout, Mangalam 94.14 percent, Bahour 93.99 percent, Nettapakkam 93.65 percent, Mannadipet 93.59 percent and Yanam 93.24 percent. Such strong participation suggests a highly energised electorate and indicates that many seats could witness close finishes.
Regional pockets such as Karaikal, Mahe and Yanam may prove decisive in the final arithmetic. Yanam saw a high-profile rematch involving veteran leader Malladi Krishna Rao and sitting MLA Gollapalli Srinivas Ashok, while Mahe witnessed a three-way contest involving Congress, BJP and TVK-backed forces.
As Puducherry awaits exit poll projections this evening, the central question is whether the NDA can retain power, whether the Congress-DMK alliance can engineer a comeback, or whether TVK can emerge as a spoiler or surprise force. With many constituencies expected to witness narrow margins, even small vote swings could significantly alter the final outcome when votes are counted on May 4.
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