The leader of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), Vijay, has raised significant concerns regarding the transportation facilities for voters in Tamil Nadu on the polling day. He has called upon the Election Commission of India (ECI) to provide immediate support for individuals stranded at bus terminals, especially in Chennai and other metropolitan areas. In his communication to Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, Vijay suggested that the lack of public transport options posed a serious threat to voters’ rights.

Vijay has expressed distress over the apparent mismanagement by the Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation, claiming that the situation constitutes a violation of citizens’ fundamental right to vote. He argues that the requisitioning of buses for election duties has not been paired with adequate transport alternatives for voters, resulting in many being unable to reach polling stations.

Describing the circumstances, he noted the considerable distress experienced by thousands trying to exercise their voting rights. He described the scenes at transport terminals as distressing, highlighting how this issue could disenfranchise significant segments of the electorate, thus threatening the integrity of the election process.

Requests for Extended Polling Hours and Additional Transport

In light of the issues faced by voters, Vijay has formally requested the ECI to extend the polling hours by two hours, allowing voting until 8 pm. He asserted that the extended timeframe is essential for voters who are trapped in long queues or delayed due to lack of transport. He emphasised that this extension is within the commission’s authority and has occurred in response to lesser disruptions in previous elections.

Vijay urged the ECI to take immediate action by coordinating with local transport authorities to deploy additional buses and shuttles to facilitate the movement of voters from terminals to polling centres. He suggested that this effort should be communicated through media announcements and official channels to ensure that all voters are aware of the available services.

Additionally, he highlighted reports of slow voting processes at polling stations, expressing concerns that delays might affect overall voter turnout. He requested that a supervisory officer be appointed to monitor polling stations effectively and ensure that the voting process proceeds smoothly and efficiently.

Current Voter Turnout and Vijay’s Election Campaign

As polling for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections commenced today, initial reports indicated a voter turnout of 17.69 per cent by 9 am. Among the districts, Tiruppur registered the highest turnout at 20.38 per cent, while Chennai recorded 16.51 per cent. The voting statistics are anticipated to fluctuate as the day progresses, especially amidst the challenges raised by Vijay.

Vijay himself cast his vote at the Neelankarai polling booth while contesting from the Perambur and Tiruchirappalli East constituencies. In Perambur, he is facing formidable competition from DMK candidate RD Shekar, who previously won decisively in the last elections. In Tiruchirappalli East, Vijay is up against sitting MLA Inigo Irudayaraj S, who also enjoys a strong electoral history.

The counting of votes is scheduled for May 4, with heightened security measures in place to ensure a smooth electoral process. As the situation evolves, the effectiveness of the Election Commission’s response to Vijay’s concerns will be closely observed by both voters and political analysts alike.

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