Explained: This article explains the political background, key decisions, and possible outcomes related to Explained : EC to announce schedule for Assembly polls in Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Puducherry today and Its Impact and why it matters right now.
With the announcement, the Model Code of Conduct will come into effect in the poll-bound states and the Union Territory.
The terms of the current Assemblies in these regions are set to expire between May and June.
The tenure of the West Bengal Assembly ends on May 7, Tamil Nadu on May 10, Assam on May 20, Kerala on May 23 and Puducherry on June 15.
The elections are expected to take place over multiple phases, particularly in West Bengal and Assam, where voting has traditionally been staggered due to logistical and security considerations.
Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Puducherry are typically voted in a single phase.
The five Assembly elections are expected to see high-voltage campaigns from major national and regional parties.
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In West Bengal, the ruling All India Trinamool Congress is likely to face a strong challenge from the Bharatiya Janata Party. The Indian National Congress–Communist Party of India (Marxist) alliance is also in the fray in the state.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has stepped up campaigning for the polls, saying in recent rallies that a “poribartan” (change) wave is building in West Bengal and urging voters to back the Bharatiya Janata Party to bring development to the state.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has also expressed confidence about the party’s prospects, saying the BJP would form the government in West Bengal and promising strong action against infiltration if voted to power.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused the Election Commission of targeting the state during the electoral roll revision exercise and alleged that genuine voters were being removed from the list.
Banerjee has also repeatedly asserted that the Trinamool Congress will fight the 2026 Assembly elections on its. “Trinamool will return to power with a two-thirds majority in 2026. We do not need anyone’s help,” she said.
On the opposition side, leaders of the Indian National Congress, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, and Left Democratic Front, have intensified campaigning and outreach programmes.
In Tamil Nadu, the contest will revolve around the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam and the opposition All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, with national parties also playing a role.
In Kerala, the ruling Communist Party of India (Marxist)-led Left Democratic Front will face the Indian National Congress-led United Democratic Front, while the BJP is also expected to contest aggressively.
The Assam election is likely to witness a contest between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party-led alliance and opposition parties including the Indian National Congress and regional players.
Further details, including polling phases, nomination dates and counting schedule, are expected to be announced during the briefing.
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