May 3, 2026

IUML leader Panakkad Munavvar Ali Shihab Thangal (File photo/Facebook) NEW DELHI: Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) leader Panakkad Munavvar Ali Shihab Thangal on Sunday made it clear that the party would back whichever decision the Congress takes on its chief ministerial candidate, a day before votes will be counted for the Kerala assembly elections held on April 9.“We do not have any particular opinion on the chief ministerial candidate. We will stand by the decision taken by the Congress high command. That has been the precedent. Everybody expects a UDF wave. All exit polls predict a UDF victory. We believe so, too., he told reporters in Malappuram. The IUML is a key constituent of the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF), which exit polls have projected to unseat the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) led by chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan and return to power after a decade. Thangal’s remarks followed comments from senior IUML leader MK Muneer, who also stressed that the decision on the chief ministerial candidate rests with the Congress high command.“The (leadership) decision has to be made by their (Congress’) high command. The UDF has full confidence that the final decision will be unanimous and accepted by all constituents. Congress has capable leadership and a decision could be taken without delay after the election results are announced,” Muneer told reporters in Kochi on Saturday. Reports suggest that the leading contenders for the chief minister’s post include Congress general secretary (organisation) KC Venugopal, leader of opposition in the Kerala assembly VD Satheesan, and senior leader Ramesh Chennithala. Venugopal serves as a Lok Sabha MP, while Satheesan and Chennithala have both contested key assembly seats in Kerala.(With PTI inputs)About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIAF Rescues Two Children Stranded On Water Tank in Siddharthnagar, UP Using Mi-17 HelicopterMassive Fire in Delhi’s Vivek Vihar Building, 9 Dead as Rescue Operations Continue in ShahdaraPune Child Rape-Murder Sparks Protests, Highway Blocked Near Navale Bridge‘Reminder To Those Who Misuse State Power’: Pawan Khera Jabs Assam CM After SC Anticipatory BailUS Retains India on Special 301 Priority Watch List, Flags Patent Regime, Enforcement GapsCourt Rejects Nida Khan’s Anticipatory Bail in TCS Nashik Harassment and Conversion CaseCensus 2027 To Begin In UP From May 2026 With 5 Lakh Personnel, & Caste Data InclusionHome Minister Amit Shah Meets Sonam Wangchuk & Other Leaders in Leh Ahead Of TalksChhattisgarh IED Blast Kills 4 DRG Personnel During Defusal Operation Near Kanker-Narayanpur BorderIndia-Bound LPG Tanker Sarv Shakti On The Move Across Strait Of Hormuz: Why It Matters?123PhotostoriesFrom firing near Kapil Sharma’s Kap’s Cafe to Bishnoi gang’s warning: All you need to know about the ongoing controversyAkshay Kumar, Sonakshi Sinha, Ajay Devgn, Ranbir Kapoor: Celebs who love pulling pranks on co-stars17-year-old ‘Young Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2025′: 7 stunning photosPrincess Charlotte celebrates 11th birthday: 5 interesting facts about the Princess who’s an equal in the league of Queen Elizabeth II7 life lessons from Sundar Pichai that actually apply to your everyday lifeHow to make South Indian Onion Uttapam for Sunday breakfastRoyal deja vu! 5 times Queen Camilla’s wardrobe looked strikingly similar to Princess Diana’s10 beautiful and unique baby girl names with the letter “S”’The Devil Wears Prada 2’: Emily Blunt’s most iconic moments123Hot PicksAssam key constituenciesKerala key constituenciesPuducherry election resultsTamil Nadu constituenciesAjay Pal SharmaBengal Poll RecordHimanta Biswa SarmaTop TrendingUS Germany relationsBank Holiday MayVande Bharat expressLPG cylinder price hikeMumbai missing linkPetrol, Diesel, LPG priceCBSE Class 12th ResultNEET 2026: Exam-day guideBSE AP SSC Class 10th ResultIPL Orange Cap

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins
IUML leader Panakkad Munavvar Ali Shihab Thangal (File photo/Facebook) NEW DELHI: Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) leader Panakkad Munavvar Ali Shihab Thangal on Sunday made it clear that the party would back whichever decision the Congress takes on its chief ministerial candidate, a day before votes will be counted for the Kerala assembly elections held on April 9.“We do not have any particular opinion on the chief ministerial candidate. We will stand by the decision taken by the Congress high command. That has been the precedent. Everybody expects a UDF wave. All exit polls predict a UDF victory. We believe so, too., he told reporters in Malappuram. The IUML is a key constituent of the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF), which exit polls have projected to unseat the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) led by chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan and return to power after a decade. Thangal’s remarks followed comments from senior IUML leader MK Muneer, who also stressed that the decision on the chief ministerial candidate rests with the Congress high command.“The (leadership) decision has to be made by their (Congress’) high command. The UDF has full confidence that the final decision will be unanimous and accepted by all constituents. Congress has capable leadership and a decision could be taken without delay after the election results are announced,” Muneer told reporters in Kochi on Saturday. Reports suggest that the leading contenders for the chief minister’s post include Congress general secretary (organisation) KC Venugopal, leader of opposition in the Kerala assembly VD Satheesan, and senior leader Ramesh Chennithala. Venugopal serves as a Lok Sabha MP, while Satheesan and Chennithala have both contested key assembly seats in Kerala.(With PTI inputs)About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIAF Rescues Two Children Stranded On Water Tank in Siddharthnagar, UP Using Mi-17 HelicopterMassive Fire in Delhi’s Vivek Vihar Building, 9 Dead as Rescue Operations Continue in ShahdaraPune Child Rape-Murder Sparks Protests, Highway Blocked Near Navale Bridge‘Reminder To Those Who Misuse State Power’: Pawan Khera Jabs Assam CM After SC Anticipatory BailUS Retains India on Special 301 Priority Watch List, Flags Patent Regime, Enforcement GapsCourt Rejects Nida Khan’s Anticipatory Bail in TCS Nashik Harassment and Conversion CaseCensus 2027 To Begin In UP From May 2026 With 5 Lakh Personnel, & Caste Data InclusionHome Minister Amit Shah Meets Sonam Wangchuk & Other Leaders in Leh Ahead Of TalksChhattisgarh IED Blast Kills 4 DRG Personnel During Defusal Operation Near Kanker-Narayanpur BorderIndia-Bound LPG Tanker Sarv Shakti On The Move Across Strait Of Hormuz: Why It Matters?123PhotostoriesFrom firing near Kapil Sharma’s Kap’s Cafe to Bishnoi gang’s warning: All you need to know about the ongoing controversyAkshay Kumar, Sonakshi Sinha, Ajay Devgn, Ranbir Kapoor: Celebs who love pulling pranks on co-stars17-year-old ‘Young Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2025′: 7 stunning photosPrincess Charlotte celebrates 11th birthday: 5 interesting facts about the Princess who’s an equal in the league of Queen Elizabeth II7 life lessons from Sundar Pichai that actually apply to your everyday lifeHow to make South Indian Onion Uttapam for Sunday breakfastRoyal deja vu! 5 times Queen Camilla’s wardrobe looked strikingly similar to Princess Diana’s10 beautiful and unique baby girl names with the letter “S”’The Devil Wears Prada 2’: Emily Blunt’s most iconic moments123Hot PicksAssam key constituenciesKerala key constituenciesPuducherry election resultsTamil Nadu constituenciesAjay Pal SharmaBengal Poll RecordHimanta Biswa SarmaTop TrendingUS Germany relationsBank Holiday MayVande Bharat expressLPG cylinder price hikeMumbai missing linkPetrol, Diesel, LPG priceCBSE Class 12th ResultNEET 2026: Exam-day guideBSE AP SSC Class 10th ResultIPL Orange Cap


'Will back their decision': IUML to support ally Congress on Kerala CM pick
IUML leader Panakkad Munavvar Ali Shihab Thangal (File photo/Facebook)

NEW DELHI: Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) leader Panakkad Munavvar Ali Shihab Thangal on Sunday made it clear that the party would back whichever decision the Congress takes on its chief ministerial candidate, a day before votes will be counted for the Kerala assembly elections held on April 9.“We do not have any particular opinion on the chief ministerial candidate. We will stand by the decision taken by the Congress high command. That has been the precedent. Everybody expects a UDF wave. All exit polls predict a UDF victory. We believe so, too., he told reporters in Malappuram. The IUML is a key constituent of the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF), which exit polls have projected to unseat the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) led by chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan and return to power after a decade. Thangal’s remarks followed comments from senior IUML leader MK Muneer, who also stressed that the decision on the chief ministerial candidate rests with the Congress high command.“The (leadership) decision has to be made by their (Congress’) high command. The UDF has full confidence that the final decision will be unanimous and accepted by all constituents. Congress has capable leadership and a decision could be taken without delay after the election results are announced,” Muneer told reporters in Kochi on Saturday. Reports suggest that the leading contenders for the chief minister’s post include Congress general secretary (organisation) KC Venugopal, leader of opposition in the Kerala assembly VD Satheesan, and senior leader Ramesh Chennithala. Venugopal serves as a Lok Sabha MP, while Satheesan and Chennithala have both contested key assembly seats in Kerala.(With PTI inputs)



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NEW DELHI: For decades, politics in Tamil Nadu has revolved around two Dravidian giants — DMK and AIADMK.Election after election, new entrants have tried to break this duopoly, but most have struggled to make a lasting impact.In the 2026 assembly elections, the bipolar contest was disrupted by a high-profile cinematic entry, as actor-turned-politician Vijay Thalapathy positioned himself as an alternative for the people in the state.Bihar’s Prashant Kishor or Delhi’s Kejriwal?In the run-up to the polls, Vijay’s political entry has drawn comparisons with two “startup” experiments — Arvind Kejriwal’s Aam Aadmi Party and Prashant Kishor’s Jan Suraaj.When Prashant Kishor entered Bihar’s electoral arena with Jan Suraaj, he attempted to challenge entrenched caste politics with a pitch focused on governance failures, migration and jobs. The message resonated, but votes did not follow.His party drew a blank in the Bihar assembly elections despite contesting all 243 seats.In contrast, Arvind Kejriwal quit his government job and launched Aam Aadmi Party after the India Against Corruption movement. In its first electoral outing, the party won 28 of 70 seats in Delhi and went on to dominate subsequent elections.Does Vijay stand a chance?Tamil Nadu’s political contest has largely been shaped by fronts led by DMK and AIADMK. Since 1967, power has alternated between these two, with smaller parties aligning with either side.This time, however, the race appears to be shifting towards a three-way contest, as a significant section of voters has remained outside the two main blocs.In 2016, AIADMK won 134 seats with over 40 per cent vote share, while DMK secured 89 seats with 32.1 per cent. Nearly 20 per cent of votes went to other parties, including BJP and Left.A similar trend played out in 2021. AIADMK-BJP alliance secured 39.71 per cent vote share, while DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance garnered around 45 per cent.In both elections, roughly one-fifth of the electorate voted outside the two dominant alliances. This 15–20 per cent unaligned vote remains critical for any third force.However, that does not automatically mean these votes will consolidate behind TVK.What exit polls suggestMost projections place TVK in the 10–24 seat range — a notable debut, but one that positions it more as a spoiler than a principal contender.P-Marq and Matrize estimate 10–12 seats, while Peoples Pulse projects 18–24, indicating traction among urban and younger voters.In such a scenario, Vijay’s party could split anti-incumbency votes, indirectly benefiting DMK.Axis MyIndia, however, offers a dramatic outlier, projecting 98–120 seats for TVK — numbers that, if realised on May 4, would propel Vijay to the centre of Tamil Nadu politics overnight.Even so, Tamil Nadu’s electoral landscape remains deeply rooted in Dravidian politics, strong party organisation and long-standing voter loyalties. Translating popularity into votes requires booth-level strength — an area where established players like DMK and AIADMK still hold an advantage.So, will Vijay be able to convert momentum into a mandate? Or will his debut mirror the fate of many other political experiments in Tamil Nadu?The answer will be clear on May 4.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosVietnam President To Lam’s First State Visit To India: What It Means For New Delhi-Hanoi TiesPune Rape-Murder Case: CM Fadnavis Assures Fast-Track Trial, Targets Oppn Over ‘Cash-for-Transfer’Nishant Kumar Begins Sadbhav Yatra from Patna, Says Aim is Worker Outreach & Public ConnectIAF Rescues Two Children Stranded On Water Tank in Siddharthnagar, UP Using Mi-17 HelicopterMassive Fire in Delhi’s Vivek Vihar Building, 9 Dead as Rescue Operations Continue in ShahdaraPune Child Rape-Murder Sparks Protests, Highway Blocked Near Navale Bridge‘Reminder To Those Who Misuse State Power’: Pawan Khera Jabs Assam CM After SC Anticipatory BailUS Retains India on Special 301 Priority Watch List, Flags Patent Regime, Enforcement GapsCourt Rejects Nida Khan’s Anticipatory Bail in TCS Nashik Harassment and Conversion CaseCensus 2027 To Begin In UP From May 2026 With 5 Lakh Personnel, & Caste Data Inclusion123PhotostoriesWhere snakes hide around your home: 7 surprising spots in your house and garden you should never ignore5 best summer fabrics for men to beat the heatwave5 offbeat beaches in Maharashtra perfect for a peaceful holiday”My moong dal chilla sticks to the pan”: 5 easy fixes to make crispy and non-sticky chillaBest ways to mole- and rat-proof your home and gardenVictoria Beckham and David Beckham: All about the high-profile romance, cheating rumours, renewed vows and moreDiljit Dosanjh fashion: 5 iconic looks that broke style rulesFrom firing near Kapil Sharma’s Kap’s Cafe to Bishnoi gang’s warning: All you need to know about the ongoing controversyThe 10-minute smart freezer tricks you will wish you knew before every vacationAkshay Kumar, Sonakshi Sinha, Ajay Devgn, Ranbir Kapoor: Celebs who love pulling pranks on co-stars123Hot PicksAssam key constituenciesKerala key constituenciesPuducherry election resultsTamil Nadu constituenciesAjay Pal SharmaBengal Poll RecordHimanta Biswa SarmaTop TrendingUS Germany relationsBank Holiday MayVande Bharat expressLPG cylinder price hikeMumbai missing linkPetrol, Diesel, LPG priceCBSE Class 12th ResultNEET 2026: Exam-day guideBSE AP SSC Class 10th ResultIPL Orange Cap

NEW DELHI: For decades, politics in Tamil Nadu has revolved around two Dravidian giants — DMK and AIADMK.Election after election, new entrants have tried to break this duopoly, but most have struggled to make a lasting impact.In the 2026 assembly elections, the bipolar contest was disrupted by a high-profile cinematic entry, as actor-turned-politician Vijay Thalapathy positioned himself as an alternative for the people in the state.Bihar’s Prashant Kishor or Delhi’s Kejriwal?In the run-up to the polls, Vijay’s political entry has drawn comparisons with two “startup” experiments — Arvind Kejriwal’s Aam Aadmi Party and Prashant Kishor’s Jan Suraaj.When Prashant Kishor entered Bihar’s electoral arena with Jan Suraaj, he attempted to challenge entrenched caste politics with a pitch focused on governance failures, migration and jobs. The message resonated, but votes did not follow.His party drew a blank in the Bihar assembly elections despite contesting all 243 seats.In contrast, Arvind Kejriwal quit his government job and launched Aam Aadmi Party after the India Against Corruption movement. In its first electoral outing, the party won 28 of 70 seats in Delhi and went on to dominate subsequent elections.Does Vijay stand a chance?Tamil Nadu’s political contest has largely been shaped by fronts led by DMK and AIADMK. Since 1967, power has alternated between these two, with smaller parties aligning with either side.This time, however, the race appears to be shifting towards a three-way contest, as a significant section of voters has remained outside the two main blocs.In 2016, AIADMK won 134 seats with over 40 per cent vote share, while DMK secured 89 seats with 32.1 per cent. Nearly 20 per cent of votes went to other parties, including BJP and Left.A similar trend played out in 2021. AIADMK-BJP alliance secured 39.71 per cent vote share, while DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance garnered around 45 per cent.In both elections, roughly one-fifth of the electorate voted outside the two dominant alliances. This 15–20 per cent unaligned vote remains critical for any third force.However, that does not automatically mean these votes will consolidate behind TVK.What exit polls suggestMost projections place TVK in the 10–24 seat range — a notable debut, but one that positions it more as a spoiler than a principal contender.P-Marq and Matrize estimate 10–12 seats, while Peoples Pulse projects 18–24, indicating traction among urban and younger voters.In such a scenario, Vijay’s party could split anti-incumbency votes, indirectly benefiting DMK.Axis MyIndia, however, offers a dramatic outlier, projecting 98–120 seats for TVK — numbers that, if realised on May 4, would propel Vijay to the centre of Tamil Nadu politics overnight.Even so, Tamil Nadu’s electoral landscape remains deeply rooted in Dravidian politics, strong party organisation and long-standing voter loyalties. Translating popularity into votes requires booth-level strength — an area where established players like DMK and AIADMK still hold an advantage.So, will Vijay be able to convert momentum into a mandate? Or will his debut mirror the fate of many other political experiments in Tamil Nadu?The answer will be clear on May 4.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosVietnam President To Lam’s First State Visit To India: What It Means For New Delhi-Hanoi TiesPune Rape-Murder Case: CM Fadnavis Assures Fast-Track Trial, Targets Oppn Over ‘Cash-for-Transfer’Nishant Kumar Begins Sadbhav Yatra from Patna, Says Aim is Worker Outreach & Public ConnectIAF Rescues Two Children Stranded On Water Tank in Siddharthnagar, UP Using Mi-17 HelicopterMassive Fire in Delhi’s Vivek Vihar Building, 9 Dead as Rescue Operations Continue in ShahdaraPune Child Rape-Murder Sparks Protests, Highway Blocked Near Navale Bridge‘Reminder To Those Who Misuse State Power’: Pawan Khera Jabs Assam CM After SC Anticipatory BailUS Retains India on Special 301 Priority Watch List, Flags Patent Regime, Enforcement GapsCourt Rejects Nida Khan’s Anticipatory Bail in TCS Nashik Harassment and Conversion CaseCensus 2027 To Begin In UP From May 2026 With 5 Lakh Personnel, & Caste Data Inclusion123PhotostoriesWhere snakes hide around your home: 7 surprising spots in your house and garden you should never ignore5 best summer fabrics for men to beat the heatwave5 offbeat beaches in Maharashtra perfect for a peaceful holiday”My moong dal chilla sticks to the pan”: 5 easy fixes to make crispy and non-sticky chillaBest ways to mole- and rat-proof your home and gardenVictoria Beckham and David Beckham: All about the high-profile romance, cheating rumours, renewed vows and moreDiljit Dosanjh fashion: 5 iconic looks that broke style rulesFrom firing near Kapil Sharma’s Kap’s Cafe to Bishnoi gang’s warning: All you need to know about the ongoing controversyThe 10-minute smart freezer tricks you will wish you knew before every vacationAkshay Kumar, Sonakshi Sinha, Ajay Devgn, Ranbir Kapoor: Celebs who love pulling pranks on co-stars123Hot PicksAssam key constituenciesKerala key constituenciesPuducherry election resultsTamil Nadu constituenciesAjay Pal SharmaBengal Poll RecordHimanta Biswa SarmaTop TrendingUS Germany relationsBank Holiday MayVande Bharat expressLPG cylinder price hikeMumbai missing linkPetrol, Diesel, LPG priceCBSE Class 12th ResultNEET 2026: Exam-day guideBSE AP SSC Class 10th ResultIPL Orange Cap

Vamsikrishna 0
NEW DELHI: The political battle for Assam will enter its decisive stage with the counting of votes on Monday, determining whether the BJP-led NDA secures a third consecutive term or the Congress stages a comeback after a high-voltage campaign centred on identity politics, welfare delivery and regional aspirations.A total of 722 candidates are in the fray across 126 assembly constituencies. Congress has fielded the highest number of candidates at 99, followed by the BJP with 90. The AIUDF has 30 candidates, while NDA allies Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) and Bodo Peoples’ Front (BPF) have fielded 26 and 11 nominees respectively.Among other players, Raijor Dal contested 13 seats, Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP) 10, CPI(M) three, and the All Party Hill Leaders Conference (APHLC) two. The Aam Aadmi Party and United People’s Party Liberal (UPPL) contested 18 seats each, the Trinamool Congress 22, and the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) 16. There are also 258 Independent candidates.High-profile faces in the fraySeveral key leaders will have their electoral fate decided on May 4, including chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Congress state president Gaurav Gogoi, AGP’s Atul Bora, Assembly Speaker Biswajit Daimary, leader of the opposition Debabrata Saikia, AIUDF chief Badruddin Ajmal, Raijor Dal leader Akhil Gogoi, and AJP chief Lurinjyoti Gogoi.Sarma is seeking a third consecutive term from Jalukbari, a seat he has represented multiple times. In the 2021 elections, he won by a record margin, securing 130,762 votes and a 73.52% vote share against Congress candidate Romen Chandra Borthakur.Gaurav Gogoi, shifting from national to state politics, is contesting from Jorhat and is seen as a key face of the Congress’s push to regain ground in upper Assam.In Tamulpur, the performance of Assembly Speaker Biswajit Daimary will be closely watched as a test of the BJP-UPPL alliance in the Bodoland Territorial Region. Debabrata Saikia is aiming to retain Nazira, a constituency long associated with his family’s political legacy.AIUDF chief Badruddin Ajmal is contesting from Binnakandi, looking to consolidate minority votes, while in Sivasagar, Akhil Gogoi continues to be a strong grassroots figure, having won the seat in 2021 as an Independent with 57,219 votes.Lurinjyoti Gogoi is contesting from Khowang, seeking to convert student-led regional mobilisation into electoral success. Meanwhile, AGP president Atul Bora is in the fray from Bokakhat, and senior minister Keshab Mahanta is contesting from Kaliabor.In Mazbat, BPF’s Charan Boro is attempting to revive the party’s influence in the Bodo belt, making it another closely watched contest.The BJP-led NDA includes AGP and BPF as key allies, while the opposition bloc comprises Congress, Raijor Dal, AJP, CPI(M), APHLC and CPI(ML).In the outgoing Assembly, the BJP holds 64 seats, with allies AGP (9), UPPL (7) and BPF (3). The opposition includes Congress (26), AIUDF (15), CPI(M) (1) and one Independent MLA.Tight security for countingCounting will take place at 40 centres across all 35 districts under heavy security. Electronic voting machines (EVMs) containing votes of over 2.5 crore electors will be opened amid strict monitoring.Twenty-five companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) have been deployed to guard counting centres and strongrooms, while around 800 additional unarmed police personnel will assist in transporting EVMs. Authorities have also stationed 93 companies of state armed police and 85 assault groups to handle any untoward incidents.Counting in Nagaon will be conducted at three centres, while Kokrajhar, Tinsukia and Jorhat will each have two counting locations. Polling for the Assembly elections was held on April 9, with a robust voter turnout of 85.96 per cent. Among the candidates, 59 are women.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosVietnam President To Lam’s First State Visit To India: What It Means For New Delhi-Hanoi TiesPune Rape-Murder Case: CM Fadnavis Assures Fast-Track Trial, Targets Oppn Over ‘Cash-for-Transfer’Nishant Kumar Begins Sadbhav Yatra from Patna, Says Aim is Worker Outreach & Public ConnectIAF Rescues Two Children Stranded On Water Tank in Siddharthnagar, UP Using Mi-17 HelicopterMassive Fire in Delhi’s Vivek Vihar Building, 9 Dead as Rescue Operations Continue in ShahdaraPune Child Rape-Murder Sparks Protests, Highway Blocked Near Navale Bridge‘Reminder To Those Who Misuse State Power’: Pawan Khera Jabs Assam CM After SC Anticipatory BailUS Retains India on Special 301 Priority Watch List, Flags Patent Regime, Enforcement GapsCourt Rejects Nida Khan’s Anticipatory Bail in TCS Nashik Harassment and Conversion CaseCensus 2027 To Begin In UP From May 2026 With 5 Lakh Personnel, & Caste Data Inclusion123PhotostoriesWhere snakes hide around your home: 7 surprising spots in your house and garden you should never ignore5 best summer fabrics for men to beat the heatwave5 offbeat beaches in Maharashtra perfect for a peaceful holiday”My moong dal chilla sticks to the pan”: 5 easy fixes to make crispy and non-sticky chillaBest ways to mole- and rat-proof your home and gardenVictoria Beckham and David Beckham: All about the high-profile romance, cheating rumours, renewed vows and moreDiljit Dosanjh fashion: 5 iconic looks that broke style rulesFrom firing near Kapil Sharma’s Kap’s Cafe to Bishnoi gang’s warning: All you need to know about the ongoing controversyThe 10-minute smart freezer tricks you will wish you knew before every vacationAkshay Kumar, Sonakshi Sinha, Ajay Devgn, Ranbir Kapoor: Celebs who love pulling pranks on co-stars123Hot PicksAssam key constituenciesKerala key constituenciesPuducherry election resultsTamil Nadu constituenciesAjay Pal SharmaBengal Poll RecordHimanta Biswa SarmaTop TrendingUS Germany relationsBank Holiday MayVande Bharat expressLPG cylinder price hikeMumbai missing linkPetrol, Diesel, LPG priceCBSE Class 12th ResultNEET 2026: Exam-day guideBSE AP SSC Class 10th ResultIPL Orange Cap

NEW DELHI: The political battle for Assam will enter its decisive stage with the counting of votes on Monday, determining whether the BJP-led NDA secures a third consecutive term or the Congress stages a comeback after a high-voltage campaign centred on identity politics, welfare delivery and regional aspirations.A total of 722 candidates are in the fray across 126 assembly constituencies. Congress has fielded the highest number of candidates at 99, followed by the BJP with 90. The AIUDF has 30 candidates, while NDA allies Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) and Bodo Peoples’ Front (BPF) have fielded 26 and 11 nominees respectively.Among other players, Raijor Dal contested 13 seats, Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP) 10, CPI(M) three, and the All Party Hill Leaders Conference (APHLC) two. The Aam Aadmi Party and United People’s Party Liberal (UPPL) contested 18 seats each, the Trinamool Congress 22, and the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) 16. There are also 258 Independent candidates.High-profile faces in the fraySeveral key leaders will have their electoral fate decided on May 4, including chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Congress state president Gaurav Gogoi, AGP’s Atul Bora, Assembly Speaker Biswajit Daimary, leader of the opposition Debabrata Saikia, AIUDF chief Badruddin Ajmal, Raijor Dal leader Akhil Gogoi, and AJP chief Lurinjyoti Gogoi.Sarma is seeking a third consecutive term from Jalukbari, a seat he has represented multiple times. In the 2021 elections, he won by a record margin, securing 130,762 votes and a 73.52% vote share against Congress candidate Romen Chandra Borthakur.Gaurav Gogoi, shifting from national to state politics, is contesting from Jorhat and is seen as a key face of the Congress’s push to regain ground in upper Assam.In Tamulpur, the performance of Assembly Speaker Biswajit Daimary will be closely watched as a test of the BJP-UPPL alliance in the Bodoland Territorial Region. Debabrata Saikia is aiming to retain Nazira, a constituency long associated with his family’s political legacy.AIUDF chief Badruddin Ajmal is contesting from Binnakandi, looking to consolidate minority votes, while in Sivasagar, Akhil Gogoi continues to be a strong grassroots figure, having won the seat in 2021 as an Independent with 57,219 votes.Lurinjyoti Gogoi is contesting from Khowang, seeking to convert student-led regional mobilisation into electoral success. Meanwhile, AGP president Atul Bora is in the fray from Bokakhat, and senior minister Keshab Mahanta is contesting from Kaliabor.In Mazbat, BPF’s Charan Boro is attempting to revive the party’s influence in the Bodo belt, making it another closely watched contest.The BJP-led NDA includes AGP and BPF as key allies, while the opposition bloc comprises Congress, Raijor Dal, AJP, CPI(M), APHLC and CPI(ML).In the outgoing Assembly, the BJP holds 64 seats, with allies AGP (9), UPPL (7) and BPF (3). The opposition includes Congress (26), AIUDF (15), CPI(M) (1) and one Independent MLA.Tight security for countingCounting will take place at 40 centres across all 35 districts under heavy security. Electronic voting machines (EVMs) containing votes of over 2.5 crore electors will be opened amid strict monitoring.Twenty-five companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) have been deployed to guard counting centres and strongrooms, while around 800 additional unarmed police personnel will assist in transporting EVMs. Authorities have also stationed 93 companies of state armed police and 85 assault groups to handle any untoward incidents.Counting in Nagaon will be conducted at three centres, while Kokrajhar, Tinsukia and Jorhat will each have two counting locations. Polling for the Assembly elections was held on April 9, with a robust voter turnout of 85.96 per cent. Among the candidates, 59 are women.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosVietnam President To Lam’s First State Visit To India: What It Means For New Delhi-Hanoi TiesPune Rape-Murder Case: CM Fadnavis Assures Fast-Track Trial, Targets Oppn Over ‘Cash-for-Transfer’Nishant Kumar Begins Sadbhav Yatra from Patna, Says Aim is Worker Outreach & Public ConnectIAF Rescues Two Children Stranded On Water Tank in Siddharthnagar, UP Using Mi-17 HelicopterMassive Fire in Delhi’s Vivek Vihar Building, 9 Dead as Rescue Operations Continue in ShahdaraPune Child Rape-Murder Sparks Protests, Highway Blocked Near Navale Bridge‘Reminder To Those Who Misuse State Power’: Pawan Khera Jabs Assam CM After SC Anticipatory BailUS Retains India on Special 301 Priority Watch List, Flags Patent Regime, Enforcement GapsCourt Rejects Nida Khan’s Anticipatory Bail in TCS Nashik Harassment and Conversion CaseCensus 2027 To Begin In UP From May 2026 With 5 Lakh Personnel, & Caste Data Inclusion123PhotostoriesWhere snakes hide around your home: 7 surprising spots in your house and garden you should never ignore5 best summer fabrics for men to beat the heatwave5 offbeat beaches in Maharashtra perfect for a peaceful holiday”My moong dal chilla sticks to the pan”: 5 easy fixes to make crispy and non-sticky chillaBest ways to mole- and rat-proof your home and gardenVictoria Beckham and David Beckham: All about the high-profile romance, cheating rumours, renewed vows and moreDiljit Dosanjh fashion: 5 iconic looks that broke style rulesFrom firing near Kapil Sharma’s Kap’s Cafe to Bishnoi gang’s warning: All you need to know about the ongoing controversyThe 10-minute smart freezer tricks you will wish you knew before every vacationAkshay Kumar, Sonakshi Sinha, Ajay Devgn, Ranbir Kapoor: Celebs who love pulling pranks on co-stars123Hot PicksAssam key constituenciesKerala key constituenciesPuducherry election resultsTamil Nadu constituenciesAjay Pal SharmaBengal Poll RecordHimanta Biswa SarmaTop TrendingUS Germany relationsBank Holiday MayVande Bharat expressLPG cylinder price hikeMumbai missing linkPetrol, Diesel, LPG priceCBSE Class 12th ResultNEET 2026: Exam-day guideBSE AP SSC Class 10th ResultIPL Orange Cap

Vamsikrishna 0
BENGALURU: Bengaluru-based space startup GalaxEye placed its first commercial satellite — Drishti — in orbit aboard SpaceX’s Falcon-9 rocket on Sunday. Terming it the “world’s first OptoSAR satellite”, the firm said the launch was a milestone in the advancement of Earth observation technologies and reinforcing India’s growing capabilities in the global space sector.“Weighing 190kg, Mission Drishti is India’s largest privately developed Earth observation satellite. It is the first satellite globally to integrate Electro-Optical (EO) and Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) sensors into a single operational platform, enabling all-weather, day-and-night imaging capabilities,” the firm said.Drishti, which can “see” through clouds, darkness and bad weather while also capturing conventional optical imagery, carries what the company calls a “SyncFused OptoSAR” payload, combining electro-optical imaging and synthetic aperture radar (SAR) on a single platform. Optical satellites provide conventional high-resolution images but are affected by cloud cover and darkness. Radar satellites, on the other hand, can operate day and night and penetrate clouds, smoke and rain, though their imagery is harder to interpret.By synchronising and combining both streams of data, GalaxEye says the satellite can generate more consistent and usable imagery for users on the ground.The spacecraft is expected to support applications ranging from border surveillance and defence monitoring to disaster response, agriculture, infrastructure planning and insurance assessment. During floods, cyclones or landslides, for instance, radar imaging can continue functioning even when cloud cover prevents optical satellites from capturing images.“Another key feature onboard is artificial intelligence processing powered by Nvidia’s Jetson Orin computing platform. Instead of transmitting vast quantities of raw imagery back to Earth for analysis, parts of the processing will happen directly in orbit. The idea is to reduce the time taken to convert satellite imagery into actionable information,” GalaxEye co-founder and CEO Suyash Singh told TOI.GalaxEye says the satellite can deliver imagery at a resolution of 1.5 metres and revisit locations globally every seven to ten days. The spacecraft, roughly the size of a compact refrigerator, also carries a deployable antenna spanning about three-and-a-half metres.The company had earlier tested its imaging systems through nearly 500 aerial sorties involving drones, Cessna aircraft and high-altitude platforms, besides flying an earlier payload aboard an Isro PSLV mission under the POEM platform.Interest in the project has already emerged from both defence and civilian agencies. The company has said discussions have taken place with multiple Indian government departments, including defence and agriculture ministries, while agencies such as the Defence Space Agency, Indian Air Force, Army and Navy have been tracking the programme.GalaxEye has also signed distribution partnerships across more than 20 countries. Following Drishti’s launch, the startup plans to build a larger constellation of 8 to 12 satellites over the next four years, with future versions targeting even sharper imagery.About the AuthorChethan KumarChethan Kumar is a Senior Assistant Editor with the Times of India. Aside from specialising in Space & Science, he has reported extensively on varied topics, with special focus on defence, policy and data stories. He has covered multiple elections, too. As a young democracy grows out of adolescence, Chethan feels, there are reels of tales emerging which need to be captured. To do this, he alternates between the mundane goings-on of the Common Man and the wonder-filled worlds of scientists and scamsters, politicians and soldiers. In a career spanning nearly 18 years, he has reported from multiple datelines — Houston, Florida, Kochi, Hyderabad, Chennai, Sriharikota (AP), NH-1 (J&K Highway), New Delhi, Ahmedabad, Raichur, Bhatkal, Mysuru, Chamarajanagar, to name a few — but is based out of Bengaluru, India’s science capital that also hosts the ISRO HQ.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosVietnam President To Lam’s First State Visit To India: What It Means For New Delhi-Hanoi TiesPune Rape-Murder Case: CM Fadnavis Assures Fast-Track Trial, Targets Oppn Over ‘Cash-for-Transfer’Nishant Kumar Begins Sadbhav Yatra from Patna, Says Aim is Worker Outreach & Public ConnectIAF Rescues Two Children Stranded On Water Tank in Siddharthnagar, UP Using Mi-17 HelicopterMassive Fire in Delhi’s Vivek Vihar Building, 9 Dead as Rescue Operations Continue in ShahdaraPune Child Rape-Murder Sparks Protests, Highway Blocked Near Navale Bridge‘Reminder To Those Who Misuse State Power’: Pawan Khera Jabs Assam CM After SC Anticipatory BailUS Retains India on Special 301 Priority Watch List, Flags Patent Regime, Enforcement GapsCourt Rejects Nida Khan’s Anticipatory Bail in TCS Nashik Harassment and Conversion CaseCensus 2027 To Begin In UP From May 2026 With 5 Lakh Personnel, & Caste Data Inclusion123Photostories5 offbeat beaches in Maharashtra perfect for a peaceful holiday”My moong dal chilla sticks to the pan”: 5 easy fixes to make crispy and non-sticky chillaBest ways to mole- and rat-proof your home and gardenVictoria Beckham and David Beckham: All about the high-profile romance, cheating rumours, renewed vows and moreDiljit Dosanjh fashion: 5 iconic looks that broke style rulesFrom firing near Kapil Sharma’s Kap’s Cafe to Bishnoi gang’s warning: All you need to know about the ongoing controversyThe 10-minute smart freezer tricks you will wish you knew before every vacationAkshay Kumar, Sonakshi Sinha, Ajay Devgn, Ranbir Kapoor: Celebs who love pulling pranks on co-stars17-year-old ‘Young Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2025’: 7 stunning photosPrincess Charlotte celebrates 11th birthday: 5 interesting facts about the Princess who’s an equal in the league of Queen Elizabeth II123Hot PicksAssam key constituenciesKerala key constituenciesPuducherry election resultsTamil Nadu constituenciesAjay Pal SharmaBengal Poll RecordHimanta Biswa SarmaTop TrendingUS Germany relationsBank Holiday MayVande Bharat expressLPG cylinder price hikeMumbai missing linkPetrol, Diesel, LPG priceCBSE Class 12th ResultNEET 2026: Exam-day guideBSE AP SSC Class 10th ResultIPL Orange Cap

BENGALURU: Bengaluru-based space startup GalaxEye placed its first commercial satellite — Drishti — in orbit aboard SpaceX’s Falcon-9 rocket on Sunday. Terming it the “world’s first OptoSAR satellite”, the firm said the launch was a milestone in the advancement of Earth observation technologies and reinforcing India’s growing capabilities in the global space sector.“Weighing 190kg, Mission Drishti is India’s largest privately developed Earth observation satellite. It is the first satellite globally to integrate Electro-Optical (EO) and Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) sensors into a single operational platform, enabling all-weather, day-and-night imaging capabilities,” the firm said.Drishti, which can “see” through clouds, darkness and bad weather while also capturing conventional optical imagery, carries what the company calls a “SyncFused OptoSAR” payload, combining electro-optical imaging and synthetic aperture radar (SAR) on a single platform. Optical satellites provide conventional high-resolution images but are affected by cloud cover and darkness. Radar satellites, on the other hand, can operate day and night and penetrate clouds, smoke and rain, though their imagery is harder to interpret.By synchronising and combining both streams of data, GalaxEye says the satellite can generate more consistent and usable imagery for users on the ground.The spacecraft is expected to support applications ranging from border surveillance and defence monitoring to disaster response, agriculture, infrastructure planning and insurance assessment. During floods, cyclones or landslides, for instance, radar imaging can continue functioning even when cloud cover prevents optical satellites from capturing images.“Another key feature onboard is artificial intelligence processing powered by Nvidia’s Jetson Orin computing platform. Instead of transmitting vast quantities of raw imagery back to Earth for analysis, parts of the processing will happen directly in orbit. The idea is to reduce the time taken to convert satellite imagery into actionable information,” GalaxEye co-founder and CEO Suyash Singh told TOI.GalaxEye says the satellite can deliver imagery at a resolution of 1.5 metres and revisit locations globally every seven to ten days. The spacecraft, roughly the size of a compact refrigerator, also carries a deployable antenna spanning about three-and-a-half metres.The company had earlier tested its imaging systems through nearly 500 aerial sorties involving drones, Cessna aircraft and high-altitude platforms, besides flying an earlier payload aboard an Isro PSLV mission under the POEM platform.Interest in the project has already emerged from both defence and civilian agencies. The company has said discussions have taken place with multiple Indian government departments, including defence and agriculture ministries, while agencies such as the Defence Space Agency, Indian Air Force, Army and Navy have been tracking the programme.GalaxEye has also signed distribution partnerships across more than 20 countries. Following Drishti’s launch, the startup plans to build a larger constellation of 8 to 12 satellites over the next four years, with future versions targeting even sharper imagery.About the AuthorChethan KumarChethan Kumar is a Senior Assistant Editor with the Times of India. Aside from specialising in Space & Science, he has reported extensively on varied topics, with special focus on defence, policy and data stories. He has covered multiple elections, too. As a young democracy grows out of adolescence, Chethan feels, there are reels of tales emerging which need to be captured. To do this, he alternates between the mundane goings-on of the Common Man and the wonder-filled worlds of scientists and scamsters, politicians and soldiers. In a career spanning nearly 18 years, he has reported from multiple datelines — Houston, Florida, Kochi, Hyderabad, Chennai, Sriharikota (AP), NH-1 (J&K Highway), New Delhi, Ahmedabad, Raichur, Bhatkal, Mysuru, Chamarajanagar, to name a few — but is based out of Bengaluru, India’s science capital that also hosts the ISRO HQ.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosVietnam President To Lam’s First State Visit To India: What It Means For New Delhi-Hanoi TiesPune Rape-Murder Case: CM Fadnavis Assures Fast-Track Trial, Targets Oppn Over ‘Cash-for-Transfer’Nishant Kumar Begins Sadbhav Yatra from Patna, Says Aim is Worker Outreach & Public ConnectIAF Rescues Two Children Stranded On Water Tank in Siddharthnagar, UP Using Mi-17 HelicopterMassive Fire in Delhi’s Vivek Vihar Building, 9 Dead as Rescue Operations Continue in ShahdaraPune Child Rape-Murder Sparks Protests, Highway Blocked Near Navale Bridge‘Reminder To Those Who Misuse State Power’: Pawan Khera Jabs Assam CM After SC Anticipatory BailUS Retains India on Special 301 Priority Watch List, Flags Patent Regime, Enforcement GapsCourt Rejects Nida Khan’s Anticipatory Bail in TCS Nashik Harassment and Conversion CaseCensus 2027 To Begin In UP From May 2026 With 5 Lakh Personnel, & Caste Data Inclusion123Photostories5 offbeat beaches in Maharashtra perfect for a peaceful holiday”My moong dal chilla sticks to the pan”: 5 easy fixes to make crispy and non-sticky chillaBest ways to mole- and rat-proof your home and gardenVictoria Beckham and David Beckham: All about the high-profile romance, cheating rumours, renewed vows and moreDiljit Dosanjh fashion: 5 iconic looks that broke style rulesFrom firing near Kapil Sharma’s Kap’s Cafe to Bishnoi gang’s warning: All you need to know about the ongoing controversyThe 10-minute smart freezer tricks you will wish you knew before every vacationAkshay Kumar, Sonakshi Sinha, Ajay Devgn, Ranbir Kapoor: Celebs who love pulling pranks on co-stars17-year-old ‘Young Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2025’: 7 stunning photosPrincess Charlotte celebrates 11th birthday: 5 interesting facts about the Princess who’s an equal in the league of Queen Elizabeth II123Hot PicksAssam key constituenciesKerala key constituenciesPuducherry election resultsTamil Nadu constituenciesAjay Pal SharmaBengal Poll RecordHimanta Biswa SarmaTop TrendingUS Germany relationsBank Holiday MayVande Bharat expressLPG cylinder price hikeMumbai missing linkPetrol, Diesel, LPG priceCBSE Class 12th ResultNEET 2026: Exam-day guideBSE AP SSC Class 10th ResultIPL Orange Cap

Vamsikrishna 0
NEW DELHI: Tamil Nadu’s 2026 assembly election has set the stage for a closely fought contest, with counting day expected to bring clarity after weeks of high-decibel campaigning and strong voter turnout.Trends will begin to emerge from 8am on May 4, as counting gets underway across the state’s 234 constituencies.Data will be released in real time on the Election Commission website, alongside live coverage, analysis, and seat tallies on The Times of India. Watch Tamil Nadu Exit Poll Stuns Panel As Axis My India Projects Up To 120 Seats For Vijay’s TVKPolling for the 2026 election was conducted in a single phase, with crores of voters participating across the state. Turnout remained robust, continuing Tamil Nadu’s trend of high electoral participation.Tamil Nadu recorded one of its highest-ever voter turnouts, exceeding 84.80%.The ruling DMK, led by chief minister MK Stalin, is seeking another term based on its governance and welfare initiatives.Meanwhile, opposition AIADMK, headed by Edappadi K Palaniswami, is aiming for a comeback. At the same time, TVK, led by Vijay, has emerged as a disruptive force, especially among urban and young voters.What exit polls predictedIn Tamil Nadu, while most exit polls indicate that the DMK-led alliance under chief minister M K Stalin is on course to retain power, Axis My India predicts the rise of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), led by actor-politician Vijay.The Axis My India exit poll projected that TVK would get 98-120 seats in its debut election, DMK-led alliance 92-100 seats, and the five-party alliance led by BJP 22-32 seats. According to Axis My India, Vijay is also ahead of Stalin in terms of choice for the next chief minister. While Stalin was supported by 35 per cent of those polled, Vijay got the support of 37 per cent.Several other exit polls predicted that the alliance led by the ruling DMK will return to power in the state. People’s Pulse projected 125-145 seats for DMK-led alliance and 65-80 seats for AIADMK-led alliance, which includes BJP. It projected TVK getting two to six seats. Tamil Nadu has 234 assembly seats.Even conservative estimates suggest that TVK could influence outcomes in multiple constituencies by redistributing votes.According to exit poll projections by Matrize, DMK and its allies will get 122–132 seats and AIADMK and its allies 80–100 seats. It said TVK would get 0–6 Assembly seats.The exit poll by P-MARQ projected 125-145 seats for the DMK-led alliance, 60-70 seats for the AIADMK-led alliance, and one to six seats for TVK.People’s Insight projected 120-140 seats for the DMK-led alliance, 60–70 for the AIADMK-led alliance, and 30-40 seats for TVK.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosVietnam President To Lam’s First State Visit To India: What It Means For New Delhi-Hanoi TiesPune Rape-Murder Case: CM Fadnavis Assures Fast-Track Trial, Targets Oppn Over ‘Cash-for-Transfer’Nishant Kumar Begins Sadbhav Yatra from Patna, Says Aim is Worker Outreach & Public ConnectIAF Rescues Two Children Stranded On Water Tank in Siddharthnagar, UP Using Mi-17 HelicopterMassive Fire in Delhi’s Vivek Vihar Building, 9 Dead as Rescue Operations Continue in ShahdaraPune Child Rape-Murder Sparks Protests, Highway Blocked Near Navale Bridge‘Reminder To Those Who Misuse State Power’: Pawan Khera Jabs Assam CM After SC Anticipatory BailUS Retains India on Special 301 Priority Watch List, Flags Patent Regime, Enforcement GapsCourt Rejects Nida Khan’s Anticipatory Bail in TCS Nashik Harassment and Conversion CaseCensus 2027 To Begin In UP From May 2026 With 5 Lakh Personnel, & Caste Data Inclusion123Photostories5 offbeat beaches in Maharashtra perfect for a peaceful holiday”My moong dal chilla sticks to the pan”: 5 easy fixes to make crispy and non-sticky chillaBest ways to mole- and rat-proof your home and gardenVictoria Beckham and David Beckham: All about the high-profile romance, cheating rumours, renewed vows and moreDiljit Dosanjh fashion: 5 iconic looks that broke style rulesFrom firing near Kapil Sharma’s Kap’s Cafe to Bishnoi gang’s warning: All you need to know about the ongoing controversyThe 10-minute smart freezer tricks you will wish you knew before every vacationAkshay Kumar, Sonakshi Sinha, Ajay Devgn, Ranbir Kapoor: Celebs who love pulling pranks on co-stars17-year-old ‘Young Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2025’: 7 stunning photosPrincess Charlotte celebrates 11th birthday: 5 interesting facts about the Princess who’s an equal in the league of Queen Elizabeth II123Hot PicksAssam key constituenciesKerala key constituenciesPuducherry election resultsTamil Nadu constituenciesAjay Pal SharmaBengal Poll RecordHimanta Biswa SarmaTop TrendingUS Germany relationsBank Holiday MayVande Bharat expressLPG cylinder price hikeMumbai missing linkPetrol, Diesel, LPG priceCBSE Class 12th ResultNEET 2026: Exam-day guideBSE AP SSC Class 10th ResultIPL Orange Cap

NEW DELHI: Tamil Nadu’s 2026 assembly election has set the stage for a closely fought contest, with counting day expected to bring clarity after weeks of high-decibel campaigning and strong voter turnout.Trends will begin to emerge from 8am on May 4, as counting gets underway across the state’s 234 constituencies.Data will be released in real time on the Election Commission website, alongside live coverage, analysis, and seat tallies on The Times of India. Watch Tamil Nadu Exit Poll Stuns Panel As Axis My India Projects Up To 120 Seats For Vijay’s TVKPolling for the 2026 election was conducted in a single phase, with crores of voters participating across the state. Turnout remained robust, continuing Tamil Nadu’s trend of high electoral participation.Tamil Nadu recorded one of its highest-ever voter turnouts, exceeding 84.80%.The ruling DMK, led by chief minister MK Stalin, is seeking another term based on its governance and welfare initiatives.Meanwhile, opposition AIADMK, headed by Edappadi K Palaniswami, is aiming for a comeback. At the same time, TVK, led by Vijay, has emerged as a disruptive force, especially among urban and young voters.What exit polls predictedIn Tamil Nadu, while most exit polls indicate that the DMK-led alliance under chief minister M K Stalin is on course to retain power, Axis My India predicts the rise of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), led by actor-politician Vijay.The Axis My India exit poll projected that TVK would get 98-120 seats in its debut election, DMK-led alliance 92-100 seats, and the five-party alliance led by BJP 22-32 seats. According to Axis My India, Vijay is also ahead of Stalin in terms of choice for the next chief minister. While Stalin was supported by 35 per cent of those polled, Vijay got the support of 37 per cent.Several other exit polls predicted that the alliance led by the ruling DMK will return to power in the state. People’s Pulse projected 125-145 seats for DMK-led alliance and 65-80 seats for AIADMK-led alliance, which includes BJP. It projected TVK getting two to six seats. Tamil Nadu has 234 assembly seats.Even conservative estimates suggest that TVK could influence outcomes in multiple constituencies by redistributing votes.According to exit poll projections by Matrize, DMK and its allies will get 122–132 seats and AIADMK and its allies 80–100 seats. It said TVK would get 0–6 Assembly seats.The exit poll by P-MARQ projected 125-145 seats for the DMK-led alliance, 60-70 seats for the AIADMK-led alliance, and one to six seats for TVK.People’s Insight projected 120-140 seats for the DMK-led alliance, 60–70 for the AIADMK-led alliance, and 30-40 seats for TVK.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosVietnam President To Lam’s First State Visit To India: What It Means For New Delhi-Hanoi TiesPune Rape-Murder Case: CM Fadnavis Assures Fast-Track Trial, Targets Oppn Over ‘Cash-for-Transfer’Nishant Kumar Begins Sadbhav Yatra from Patna, Says Aim is Worker Outreach & Public ConnectIAF Rescues Two Children Stranded On Water Tank in Siddharthnagar, UP Using Mi-17 HelicopterMassive Fire in Delhi’s Vivek Vihar Building, 9 Dead as Rescue Operations Continue in ShahdaraPune Child Rape-Murder Sparks Protests, Highway Blocked Near Navale Bridge‘Reminder To Those Who Misuse State Power’: Pawan Khera Jabs Assam CM After SC Anticipatory BailUS Retains India on Special 301 Priority Watch List, Flags Patent Regime, Enforcement GapsCourt Rejects Nida Khan’s Anticipatory Bail in TCS Nashik Harassment and Conversion CaseCensus 2027 To Begin In UP From May 2026 With 5 Lakh Personnel, & Caste Data Inclusion123Photostories5 offbeat beaches in Maharashtra perfect for a peaceful holiday”My moong dal chilla sticks to the pan”: 5 easy fixes to make crispy and non-sticky chillaBest ways to mole- and rat-proof your home and gardenVictoria Beckham and David Beckham: All about the high-profile romance, cheating rumours, renewed vows and moreDiljit Dosanjh fashion: 5 iconic looks that broke style rulesFrom firing near Kapil Sharma’s Kap’s Cafe to Bishnoi gang’s warning: All you need to know about the ongoing controversyThe 10-minute smart freezer tricks you will wish you knew before every vacationAkshay Kumar, Sonakshi Sinha, Ajay Devgn, Ranbir Kapoor: Celebs who love pulling pranks on co-stars17-year-old ‘Young Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2025’: 7 stunning photosPrincess Charlotte celebrates 11th birthday: 5 interesting facts about the Princess who’s an equal in the league of Queen Elizabeth II123Hot PicksAssam key constituenciesKerala key constituenciesPuducherry election resultsTamil Nadu constituenciesAjay Pal SharmaBengal Poll RecordHimanta Biswa SarmaTop TrendingUS Germany relationsBank Holiday MayVande Bharat expressLPG cylinder price hikeMumbai missing linkPetrol, Diesel, LPG priceCBSE Class 12th ResultNEET 2026: Exam-day guideBSE AP SSC Class 10th ResultIPL Orange Cap

Vamsikrishna 0