Puducherry Election 2026 Live Updates: 'Unstoppable surge of democracy'—Puducherry creates history with record 86.92% voter turnout

Voting for the 30 Assembly constituencies in the Union Territory of Puducherry concluded at 6 pm on Thursday, with voters who had arrived before the deadline allowed to remain in queues and cast their ballots, officials said.

According to initial estimates, the polling percentage crossed 86 per cent.

The election is being seen as a key contest between the ruling NDA, which is seeking to retain power, and the opposition Congress-led alliance, which is attempting to wrest control from the AINRC-led front in the union territory.

The Congress-led bloc has centred its campaign on issues of local autonomy and administrative friction.

Puducherry created electoral history, recording an all-time high voter turnout of 86.92 per cent by 5 pm in the Assembly elections.

Calling it a remarkable democratic response, an Election Commission official said, “This is an unstoppable surge of democracy. The people have spoken— loud and strong.”

While the demand for statehood featured prominently in the campaign rhetoric of almost all parties, the battle for Puducherry has played out less as a conventional party contest and more as a fight shaped by the personal influence of candidates in their respective constituencies.

The main contest is between Chief Minister N. Rangasamy’s All India N.R. Congress (AINRC)-led NDA and the Congress-led INDIA bloc.

Seeking a second consecutive term, the AINRC-BJP alliance is banking largely on Rangasamy’s personal appeal. However, the entry of actor-turned-politician Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) and Senthamizhan Seeman’s Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) has added an element of unpredictability, with both parties widely seen as potential vote-splitters.

Spread across Puducherry, Karaikal, Mahe and Yanam, the Union Territory’s 30 elected Assembly seats will decide the composition of the 33-member House, which also includes three members nominated by the Centre.

The seat-sharing arrangement underlines the bipolar nature of the contest. In the NDA camp, the AINRC is contesting 16 seats, the BJP 10, and allies AIADMK and LJK two each.

In the opposition alliance, the Congress is contesting 16 seats and the DMK 14, with one of the latter’s seats allotted to the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK).

Puducherry State Congress president and Thattanchavady Assembly constituency candidate V. Vaithilingam said polling had been favourable for the Congress and its ally DMK.

"Today’s polling has been favourable, particularly Congress. The DMK alliance is also performing well. We are confident that we will form the government on 4 May," he said as he cast his vote.

Tension briefly flared at a polling booth in the Mannadipet Assembly constituency after BJP and Congress workers clashed during voting, police sources said. The incident took place at a booth in Tirukanoor village.

According to police, the trouble began when a group of Congress workers objected to BJP workers standing near the polling station, saying only voters were allowed to remain there.

The argument soon escalated, and workers from both sides allegedly attacked each other. Police intervened, dispersed the crowd using canes and brought the situation under control, the sources said.

Polling was not affected by the incident, police added.

Latchiya Jananayaga Katchi founder and Kamaraj Nagar constituency candidate Jose Charles Martin cast his vote along with his wife for the Puducherry Assembly Elections 2026 at a polling station in Reddiarpalayam.

He said, "Casting our vote is both our duty and a matter of honour. I have fulfilled my duty and went to cast my vote along with my wife... Many people are turning out to vote, demonstrating their love and support for their respective candidates. As Indians, we must showcase our unity and strength in this democracy... The NDA will certainly come to power in Puducherry; we have set a target of 25 seats, and we are fully confident that we will achieve it."

Puducherry Home Minister and BJP candidate from the Mannadipet Assembly constituency, A Namassivayam, said the visits of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union home minister Amit Shah and JP Nadda had created a strong wave in favour of the party across Puducherry.

"Voters are casting their ballots with great enthusiasm, which strengthens the party's confidence... NDA alliance will return to power in Puducherry, and there is no doubt about a repeat mandate," he said.

A robot carrying a plate of flower petals welcomed voters at a model polling booth in the Raj Bhavan constituency during the Assembly polls.

Set up at VOC Government Higher Secondary School, the robot moved along the corridor, greeted visitors and urged them to cast their votes.

Puducherry District Election Officer A Kulothungan told PTI that the booth was one of the model polling stations opened in the Union Territory and had received a positive response from voters.

"This innovative arrangement delighted visitors, who appreciated the robot's voice messages urging them to vote and help achieve 100 per cent polling," the official said, as quoted by PTI. He added that the robot was brought from Chennai.

A senior voter said such an initiative had not been seen before and would encourage more people to take part in the democratic process.

The Union Territory has witnessed a voter turnout of 57% till 1pm.

In Puducherry, 10,14,070 electors are eligible to cast their votes for 30 seats in the Legislative Assembly.

The electorate includes 5,39,125 female voters, 4,74,788 male voters, and 157 voters belonging to the third gender category. A total of 24,156 voters fall in the age group of 18-19 years, while 6,034 voters belong to the senior citizen category, aged 85 and above.

Puducherry chief minister N Rangaswamy cast his vote in the 2026 Assembly elections on Thursday and expressed confidence that his party would return to power with a clear mandate.

Keeping up his long-standing practice, Rangaswamy rode to the polling station on a motorcycle. After voting, talking to reporters he said, “We will get more seats and surely win the election.” He is contesting from the Thattanchavady and Mangalam constituencies.

Rangaswamy has previously served multiple terms as chief minister, from 2001 to 2008, 2011 to 2016, and again since 2021, and was Leader of the Opposition between 2016 and 2021.

Polling began on a smooth note across Puducherry, with voters turning out steadily to elect representatives to 30 Assembly seats in the 33-member House. Voting started at 7 am across 1,099 polling stations and will continue till 6 pm, with officials saying arrangements are in place for a peaceful process.

The Union Territory is currently governed by the AINRC-BJP alliance. BJP state president VP Ramalingam expressed optimism, saying, “Today is a very good day. All the citizens are showing great interest in voting for our nation. Everything is going very well. NDA is going to form the government.” He is contesting from the Raj Bhavan constituency in a closely watched contest against Congress candidate R Kumaran and DMK’s Vignesh Kannan.

On the other hand, the Congress also exuded confidence, claiming the electorate is seeking change. Former chief minister V Narayanasamy said, “I exercise my democratic right by going to the booth and standing in the queue to vote. It is the duty of every citizen of India to go and cast their vote. In Puducherry, the situation is very favourable for the INDIA bloc.”

With all major parties in the fray, the election is expected to see a close contest for control of the Union Territory.

After casting his vote, BJP state general secretary, Puducherry Mohan Kumar says, "People in large numbers are coming to cast their votes. People want the double-engine government here. Everyone is voting for a developed Puducherry. The public wants development under the leadership of PM Modi. NDA will form its government here..."

Assembly elections in the Union Territory have seen close to 39% of polling till 11am.

On Puducherry assembly elections, Puducherry Lt Governor K Kailashnathan says, "It is the primary duty of every citizen to cast vote in elections. I request all the citizens to cast their vote."

Puducherry CM N Rangaswamy who is contesting assembly polls from two constituencies, Mangalam and Thattanchavady, after casting his vote exuded confidence over winning both the seats.

On being asked about the number of seats he expects the alliance to win he said more than numbers "government formation is important."

The CM said, "In both the constituencies, I will win. More than numbers, forming the government is important to me..."

Puducherry CM and All India NR Congress (AINRC) candidate from Mangalam and Thattanchavady assembly constituency, N Rangaswamy, leaves on his bike after casting his vote for the Puducherry assembly elections.

Voting is underway across the Union Territory of Puducherry on Thursday, with around 9.5 lakh voters set to decide the electoral fortunes of the ruling NDA and the opposition INDIA bloc. Polling began at 7 am and has been progressing amid tight security arrangements.

Enthusiastic voters were seen lining up outside polling stations in Puducherry and its enclaves of Karaikal, Mahe and Yanam, with steady participation reported in the initial hours.

The Union Territory has a total electorate of 9.5 lakh, spread across Puducherry (23 Assembly segments), Karaikal (five), and one constituency each in Mahe and Yanam. Women voters, numbering 5.03 lakh, outnumber male voters, who account for 4.46 lakh.

According to officials, polling is being conducted across 1,099 polling stations, of which 209 have been identified as vulnerable. A total of 294 candidates are in the fray.

The contest is primarily between the NDA, led by the AINRC, and the INDIA bloc comprising Congress, DMK and the VCK. The entry of actor-politician Vijay’s TVK has added to the contest, while actor-director Seeman’s NTK is also in the race, seeking to make an impact.

The Union Territory of Puducherry has recorded an approximate voter turnout of 17.41% till 9am.

Congress leader and former Puducherry CM V Narayanasamy cast his vote at a polling booth in Mission Street in early hours of polling.

After casting his ballot he said, "The poll started now. We'll be knowing the trend only after 1 om. But the I contacted various constituencies, our candidates, our our workers, the situation is very good. The INDIA alliance will form the government in Puducherry. I request the people of Puducherry, come and vote and vote for vote in the election. They should exercise their democratic right and 100 per cent voting should be ensured by the people of Puducherry."

BJP's Puducherry president V P Ramalingam reached early in the day to cast his vote.

He also urged youth to perform their democratic duty and come out in numbers to participate in elections.

Former Puducherry chief minister and senior Congress leader V Narayanasamy casts his vote at the polling station at VOC Govt School.

Voting commenced amid tight security across the union territory of Puducherry on Thursday with 9.50 lakh voters set to decide the electoral fortunes of the ruling NDA and the opposition INDIA bloc.

Voters are lining up enthusiastically before the polling stations in Puducherry, and its enclaves of Karaikal, Mahe and Yanam to exercise their franchise. Polling began at 7 am.

The Union Territory has a total of 9.50 lakh voters spread over Puducherry (23 Assembly segments) Karaikal (five), Mahe and Yanam (having one constituency each).

Women voters with a strength of 5.03 lakh outnumber men who account for 4.46 lakh voters

According to officials, the union territory has 1,099 polling stations and of them 209 have been identified as vulnerable and a total of 294 candidates are in the fray.

The NDA led by the AINRC and the INDIA bloc comprising Congress, DMK and the VCK are the two principal alliances in the race and the entry of actor-politician led Vijay's TVK has led to lot of expectations.

Actor-director Seeman's NTK is another party which is in the race, determined to make a mark.

During the campaign trail Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday alleged widespread corruption in Puducherry, claiming that a "30 per cent commission" is being taken on government contracts and accusing the administration of functioning like a "commission agent."

Addressing an election rally in Lawspet, Gandhi also raised concerns over governance and law and order in the Union Territory.

"Everybody knows that there is a 30 per cent commission taken on all contracts. Govt has become a commission agent. There is a liquor license raj, no matter how much the public complains, nothing happens. They steal from the people, but they also steal from the god; law and order are declining," the Congress leader said.

He further asserted that granting Puducherry full statehood would ensure its people have a greater voice in governance, while criticising rule by the Lieutenant Governor.

"The most important thing the people of Puducherry will get a voice; we don't want Puducherry to be ruled by an LG like a king. We want people of Puducherry to run this beautiful state; that's why we are committed to statehood. Please support our Congress candidates and alliance candidates. Whenever I come to Puducherry, you show me tremendous love and support," he said.

Rahul also alleged that the government in Puducherry does not reflect the will of its people and claimed that it has been "imposed from Delhi."

"It is pretty clear that the government in Puducherry isn't the expression of the people of Puducherry, but it's imposed from Delhi. There has always been a question of full statehood BJP promised it, but didn't fulfil. The BJP wants Puducherry to belong to Mr Adani. The strategic Karaikal has already been sold to him," he added.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi called on voters in Union Territory of Puducherry to come out in large numbers and participate in elections.

In a post on X PM said, "As the Puducherry Assembly elections commence, I urge every voter to come out and participate in record numbers. I especially appeal to our youth and to women voters to strengthen the process of democracy. Every vote matters in shaping the future of Puducherry."

Puducherry is voting, with around 9.5 lakh voters set to decide the fate of 294 candidates across 30 assembly seats. Even narrow margins could flip results, making this a high-stakes contest.

Statehood Demand

The long-pending call for full statehood dominates the debate. CM N Rangasamy and the AINRC–BJP-led NDA argue that alignment with the Centre ensures smoother governance. The Congress–DMK bloc frames the election as a referendum on “lost autonomy,” highlighting friction with the Lieutenant Governor and limited administrative freedom.

Economy, Prices and Welfare

Economic issues are front and centre. Proposed privatisation of the electricity department has sparked protests and fears of rising tariffs. The NDA emphasises welfare schemes, cash support, and subsidies, while the opposition focuses on unemployment, rising living costs, and youth migration to cities like Chennai and Bengaluru.

Fragmented Contest and the Vijay Factor

Actor-turned-politician Vijay’s TVK adds unpredictability, potentially splitting votes in key constituencies. Independents and new parties could turn close contests, raising the possibility of a hung assembly.

With statehood, welfare, and fragmented votes in play, Puducherry voters hold the key. The verdict will be declared on May 4.

Polling for the 30-member Assam Assembly began at 7 am on Thursday amid tight security and elaborate arrangements across the state. Over 9.5 lakh eligible voters are set to decide the fate of hundreds of candidates contesting across constituencies that span urban centres, and coastal areas.

Election officials said voting is being conducted across thousands of polling stations, with special provisions in place for elderly voters, persons with disabilities, and first-time voters. Security has been intensified in sensitive constituencies, with central forces deployed to ensure smooth and peaceful polling.

Voting for 30 seats Puducherry assembly is set to begin shortly.

Puducherry assembly elections 2026: Union minister and BJP election in-charge for Puducherry, JP Nadda, along with Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, on Tuesday flagged off the Bharatiya Janata Party Yuva Morcha's mega bike rally ahead of the upcoming assembly polls.

Addressing the gathering, Nadda assured that an NDA 2.0 government in Puducherry would focus on the union territory’s economic development. He urged Yuva Morcha members to spread BJP’s promises, including giving two free gas cylinders yearly—one on Pongal and the other on Vinayaka Chaturthi.

"Meritorious 12th-class students will receive e-scooters. We will set up 30 water ATMs across the UT and provide 10,000 scholarships of Rs 10,000 each," he said.

Nadda outlined the NDA’s development vision for Puducherry, citing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s mantra: “Puducherry means the BEST—B for Business, E for Education, S for Spiritualism, T for Tourism.” He said the NDA government would prioritise economic growth across these areas.

He also criticised the Congress-DMK government, calling it “a government of goons” and accusing it of corruption and mismanagement. “Under the previous regime, drug mafias thrived, streets were unsafe, and the poor suffered. Only after the NDA took charge was law and order restored,” Nadda claimed.

​Puducherry assembly elections 2026: The long-standing demand for statehood for Puducherry has emerged as a key issue ahead of the 2026 assembly elections.

Since merging with India in the 1960s, Puducherry has remained a Union Territory, where the lieutenant governor—the President’s representative—holds more power than the elected chief minister. This power imbalance has frequently led to clashes between the lieutenant governor and the territorial government, a dynamic seen in other Union Territories as well.

As parties prepare for the polls, the statehood question is shaping up as a major point of debate, with voters closely watching where each political formation stands.

Puducherry, a former French colony, consists of four districts: Puducherry, Karaikal, Mahe, and Yanam.

Although France transferred the colonies to India on a de facto basis in November 1954—more than seven years after India’s independence—it was only in August 1962 that Puducherry, then known as Pondicherry, formally became part of the Indian Union. It was subsequently accorded the Union territory status in July 1963.

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Puducherry assembly elections 2026: The AINRC–BJP-led NDA, headed by chief minister N Rangasamy, faces a tough fight against the Congress–DMK alliance in Puducherry’s 33-member assembly. Voting is on April 9, with counting on May 4.

The spotlight is on Thattanchavady, where Rangasamy faces former CM V Vaithilingam. Key issues include the long-pending statehood demand, high unemployment, and water contamination in Puducherry district, which holds 23 of 30 seats.

A wildcard is Vijay’s TVK, whose popularity could sway results. High-profile leaders from both alliances are campaigning intensely as a tight contest looms.

​Puducherry assembly elections 2026: Around 9.50 lakh voters will decide the electoral fate of 294 candidates in the Assembly elections in Puducherry on April 9 and all arrangements have been made for smooth conduct of polls, CEO P Jawahar said here on Wednesday. The polling will begin at 7 am in Puducherry and its enclaves of Karaikal, Mahe and Yanam which together have 30 Assembly seats.

The union territory has 1,099 polling stations and of them 209 have been identified as vulnerable, Jawahar told media here. Thirty polling stations would be managed exclusively by women staff and 15 booths would be operated by young officers.

Two polling stations would be operated by persons with disabilities, he added. The union territory has as many as 24,919 new voters, he said. The Chief Electoral Officer said senior citizens and differently-abled voters would be assisted by volunteers at the booths to reach the polling stations to cast their votes and also for their safe return to their homes. Wheelchairs will be available. The election authorities have engaged 2,200 young voters to take care of them, he said. Jawahar said that deployment of drones for monitoring purposes had been of help to track persons indulging in activities that tarnished fair polls.

He said cash and liquor were seized after drone surveillance was conducted. A total of Rs 77.25 lakh was seized at various points and liquor worth Rs 68.50 lakh was also seized. Seventeen cases were booked for alleged violation of the Model Code of Conduct during the past few weeks. As many as 24 persons were booked for allegedly distributing cash to lure the voters, he said.