Tamil Nadu elections: Election Commission imposes restrictions on exit polls ahead of Assembly polls

In view of the ensuing Assembly election in Tamil Nadu, the Election Commission of India (ECI) on Tuesday (March 24, 2026) said conducting and publishing or publicising exit poll by means of print or electronic media or dissemination in any other manner, the result of any exit poll is prohibited between 7 a.m. on April 9 (beginning of polls in five States/UT) and 6.30 p.m. on April 29 (end of polls in five State/UT).

Also Read | A look at what defined the outgoing 16th Assembly of Tamil Nadu

The above order has been issued under the provisions of the Representation of the People Act, 1951. In a statement, Chief Electoral Officer Archana Patnaik said polling for Tamil Nadu Assembly elections 2026 will be held on April 23, between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m.

She said, under the provisions of the aforesaid Act, displaying any election matter, including the results of any opinion poll or any other poll survey, in any electronic media, would be prohibited during the period of 48 hours ending with the hours fixed for the conclusion of the poll in the State.