Chennai, April 23 (IANS) First-time voters across Tamil Nadu displayed strong enthusiasm as they stepped out to cast their ballots in the Assembly elections, expressing hope that the newly elected government will prioritise the state’s development.
Polling for the high-stakes Tamil Nadu Assembly elections across all 234 constituencies began at 7 a.m., with over 5.73 crore eligible voters set to decide the fate of 4,023 candidates in a fiercely contested four-cornered battle.
Voting commenced early in the morning, with voters seen queuing up in large numbers at polling booths, reflecting strong public enthusiasm to participate in the democratic process.
A first-time voter from Dindigul, speaking to IANS, said, “I study in Coimbatore. I especially came back to my hometown to cast my first vote. This is my duty. I urge other voters also to exercise their franchise and vote for the prosperous future of the state.”
Another young voter shared a similar sentiment, emphasising the importance of participation.
“I live in Mumbai, and I came back to cast my first vote. I feel really good; it’s a satisfying moment to get to make the right choice. It’s also a responsibility, and I wish everyone would take part. Think about the development of the state, think about responsible leadership; this is the right time to make the right choice for Tamil Nadu, so people should elect a deserving candidate,” a voter from Chennai told IANS.
“Everyone should vote, especially the youth, as they will shape our future,” another added.
In a unique initiative to engage voters, Dharmapuri witnessed humanoid and dog-like robots welcoming first-time voters with flowers, sweets, and certificates during the polling process for the Assembly elections.
The district recorded participation from over 12.5 lakh voters across 1,596 polling stations, with authorities implementing heightened security arrangements, surveillance, and “Green Election” measures that included the distribution of seed-based gifts to promote environmental awareness.
Polling stations were adorned with balloon arches, while robots interacted with voters on a green carpet, adding a technological touch aimed at attracting and encouraging younger participants.
The electoral contest primarily features the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance, the AIADMK-led National Democratic Alliance, Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK), and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), making this one of the most competitive elections in recent years.
With voter turnout expected to play a decisive role, political parties are closely monitoring polling trends across constituencies.
The counting of votes is scheduled for May 4, when the electoral verdict will determine the next government in Tamil Nadu.
–IANS
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