New Delhi: Voting for Assembly elections in Assam, Kerala, and Puducherry began on Thursday, formally launching the 2026 election cycle. Each state presents a distinct political contest, with incumbents seeking continuity and challengers pushing for change.
In Kerala, the political battle is shaping up as a three-cornered contest. The ruling Left Democratic Front, led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, is seeking another consecutive term, highlighting its decade-long governance record, infrastructure growth, and welfare initiatives.
The Congress-led United Democratic Front has mounted an aggressive campaign, focusing on corruption allegations and leveraging its improved performance in recent local body elections. Meanwhile, the BJP is attempting to expand its footprint in the southern state, encouraged by incremental gains in vote share and a stronger showing in local polls, according to reports.
Campaigning in Kerala concluded with high-energy public engagement, including roadshows and creative outreach efforts aimed at undecided voters, reflecting the intensity of the contest.
In Assam, the spotlight remains firmly on the ruling BJP, which is aiming for a third consecutive term. The party concluded an intense campaign marked by expansive promises, including the rollout of a Uniform Civil Code, creation of two lakh jobs, measures to curb illegal migration, and large-scale investments to strengthen connectivity. Welfare measures, such as subsidised LPG cylinders, also featured prominently in its outreach.
The Congress, led in the state by Gaurav Gogoi, countered with sharp criticism, accusing the ruling party of divisive politics and raising allegations regarding the financial dealings of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and his family. The campaign discourse in Assam frequently revolved around identity politics, particularly the theme of protecting local land, culture, and heritage.
Adding an emotional dimension to the electoral atmosphere is the death of noted singer Zubeen Garg in 2025. While authorities termed it an accident, political parties have exchanged accusations, with opposition leaders promising a thorough investigation if voted to power.
The election is also the first in Assam after the 2023 delimitation exercise, which redrew constituency boundaries. The move has been contentious, especially in regions where demographic shifts have altered the electoral balance.
In Puducherry, the electoral fight centres on Chief Minister N. Rangaswamy and his All India NR Congress, which is contesting in alliance with the BJP and All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam. The alliance is aiming to retain power against the Congress-DMK combine in the 30-member Assembly.
The election will also mark the electoral debut of actor-turned-politician Vijay’s party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, although its primary focus remains on neighbouring Tamil Nadu.
With multiple narratives, alliances, and regional dynamics at play, the outcomes in these three regions are expected to shape the broader political landscape in 2026.
