Bhubaneswar: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced the schedule for the 2026 General Elections to Legislative Assemblies in Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal, along with bye-elections in six states. The schedule was officially declared on March 15, 2026.
Polling in Tamil Nadu and the first phase in West Bengal will be held on April 23, 2026 (Thursday), while the second phase in West Bengal is scheduled for April 29, 2026 (Wednesday). Counting of votes for all states and the Union Territory will take place on May 4, 2026 (Monday).
In line with election protocols, the ECI has mandated the enforcement of ‘Dry Days’ on polling dates as well as on the counting day. Accordingly, May 4, 2026, has also been declared a Dry Day across all poll-bound regions.
During these notified periods, no liquor shops, hotels, restaurants, clubs, or any other establishments will be permitted to sell or serve alcohol to the public, as per applicable laws. The directive is aimed at ensuring free, fair, and peaceful conduct of elections by maintaining public order.
-OdishaAge
