The Election Commission of India has implemented extensive security measures to ensure a smooth counting process amid heightened political tensions across multiple states, with the counting of votes for the 2026 state elections beginning on May 4, 2026.
Key facts:
- The counting process will start with postal ballots at 8 am, followed by Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) counting from 8:30 am.
- Counting centres have been fortified and secured by the Election Commission of India.
- Keralam recorded a voter turnout of 78.27 percent in the election held on April 9.
- Tamil Nadu has deployed nearly 1.25 lakh personnel for the counting process across its 62 counting centres.
- Assam has enforced a three-layer security system at its counting centres, which include eight tables designated for EVM counting.
The backdrop for this election includes sharp exchanges between political alliances, particularly over welfare delivery and the performance of the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) government over the past decade. With political stakes exceptionally high, authorities are determined to maintain order and prevent post-result flare-ups as counting begins.
West Bengal conducted polling in two phases for its 294-member Assembly, while Tamil Nadu’s election, involving 234 seats, is viewed as a significant test for the ruling alliance seeking another term. The high participation has set the stage for what is expected to be a closely watched verdict, with both major alliances expressing confidence in their prospects.
