Voter Turnout At 05:00 PM: Tamil Nadu Crosses 82%, Surpasses 2021 Poll Record

Tamil Nadu recorded a significant surge in voter participation during the Assembly elections on Thursday, with turnout reaching 82.24 per cent by 5 PM, already exceeding the final 73.63 per cent recorded in the 2021 polls.

The steady rise in voting throughout the day highlighted robust public participation across both urban and rural constituencies, despite prevailing heatwave conditions in several parts of the state.

As polling entered its final hour, the Election Commission of India issued a final appeal urging voters, particularly in Chennai, to visit polling stations and cast their ballots.

Several political leaders participated in the democratic exercise.

AIADMK candidate from Royapuram D Jayakumar and BJP leader Khushbu Sundar cast their votes and displayed inked fingers, encouraging wider voter turnout.

In Kanniyakumari district, members of the Kani tribal community overcame logistical barriers to participate in the election.

Residents from remote hill hamlets crossed the Pechiparai dam by boat to reach polling stations, as high water levels have cut off road access.

To support voters, the district administration deployed three special boats and provided life jackets, ensuring safe transit.

The turnout from these regions reflected a strong democratic commitment among marginalised communities.

Vaiko of the MDMK expressed confidence that the DMK-led alliance would return to power with a decisive mandate, predicting over 200 seats in the 234-member Assembly.

With polling nearing completion, authorities are focused on concluding the process smoothly as the state awaits the final verdict.

Also Read: Voter Turnout At 03:00 PM: West Bengal Nears 79%, Tamil Nadu At 70%