Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, along with Election Commissioners S S Sandhu and Vivek Joshi, conducted a review meeting on election preparations in Tamil Nadu, where Assembly polls are set for April 23, 2026. The Commission emphasized the need for a festive atmosphere during elections, ensuring they are free from inducement, intimidation, or violence. Earlier, Kumar congratulated voters in Assam, Kerala, and Puducherry for their record-high participation in the recent Assembly elections, calling it a 'historic testimony' for democracy. Assam recorded a turnout of 85.38%, with female participation slightly higher at 85.96%, while Puducherry achieved 89.83%, marking its highest turnout ever. Keralam had a turnout of 78.03%, with females participating at 80.86%. Kumar's remarks underscore the importance of these elections for the democratic process in India.