Chennai, April 21 (NationPress) As the 2026 Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly Election approaches its critical final moments, the campaigning across the state will officially wrap up at 6 P.M. on Tuesday, initiating the necessary silence period prior to the elections.

The voting for all 234 Assembly constituencies is scheduled to take place in a single phase on April 23, from 7 A.M. to 6 P.M., with approximately 5.73 crore eligible voters ready to exercise their rights.

In a final surge to garner support, prominent political figures are actively engaging in intensive campaigning throughout the state.

Chief Minister M.K. Stalin plans to conduct his last round of canvassing in Kolathur, his home turf, concentrating on door-to-door outreach and personal interactions.

Opposition Leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami will conclude his campaign in Salem, where he is expected to connect with voters and party members through a series of meetings, highlighting crucial issues raised by the AIADMK during the campaign.

Naan Tamilar Katchi leader Seeman is set to campaign in Karaikudi, while Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) leader Vijay will maintain his outreach efforts in Chennai.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge is scheduled to hold a public meeting in Thiruvanmiyur as part of the DMK-led alliance’s final push.

With the campaign period drawing to an end, the Election Commission has emphasized strict compliance with the Model Code of Conduct during the silence period.

Public gatherings, rallies, and processions will be forbidden after 6 P.M., and any form of election-related communications is prohibited from being shared via electronic media, including television, radio, social media platforms like WhatsApp and Facebook, and SMS services.

Authorities have also banned campaign messaging during cultural events, including music and theater performances.

Any violations could lead to penalties, including imprisonment of up to two years, fines, or both.

Individuals who are not voting have been instructed to vacate their respective constituencies following the campaign deadline, and vehicle permits assigned to candidates, including star campaigners, will be revoked.

The Commission has also cautioned that using hired vehicles to transport voters on polling day is an offense punishable by law.

Candidates are permitted to establish only one election office per polling station, which must be located at least 100 meters away, with a maximum of two personnel.

Liquor sales throughout Tamil Nadu will be halted for three days starting Tuesday evening, leading to significant crowds at retail outlets on Monday as voters made last-minute purchases.

aal/rad