Puducherry is gearing up for assembly elections on April 9, 2026, with a direct contest between the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA), led by Chief Minister N Rangasamy, and the Congress-Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) alliance. The NDA aims for a second consecutive term after winning 16 seats in the last election in 2021. Historically, the Congress has struggled to maintain power in Puducherry, having last re-elected a government in 2006. The Congress-DMK alliance faces a 'survive or revive' dilemma, as pre-poll surveys indicate the NDA is projected to secure 14-17 seats. The Congress party is contesting 16 seats, while the DMK is vying for 13. Complicating matters, multiple candidates from the alliance ecosystem are competing in several constituencies, which could dilute their overall impact. The upcoming elections will test the Congress's ability to address local development issues and the demand for statehood amid a strong incumbency advantage held by the NDA.