Election Commission Schedules Key Review Visit to Southern States
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced a crucial three-day assessment tour to Tamil Nadu and the Union Territory of Puducherry, scheduled from February 25 to 27, 2026. This high-level visit is aimed at comprehensively evaluating the poll preparedness and logistical arrangements in these regions ahead of the impending assembly elections.
Focus on Southern Poll Readiness
During this intensive review period, the full commission, led by the Chief Election Commissioner, will engage with state and local election officials, political stakeholders, and administrative authorities. The primary objective is to ensure that all electoral machinery is fully operational and that robust measures are in place to facilitate a smooth, free, and fair voting process.
The commission will meticulously inspect critical aspects including:
- Voter registration lists and their accuracy
- Security arrangements and deployment plans for polling stations
- Availability and functionality of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) systems
- Accessibility measures for voters, especially persons with disabilities and elderly citizens
- Enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct and expenditure monitoring mechanisms
Broader Electoral Landscape
It is important to note that assembly elections are also due in the states of Assam, Kerala, and West Bengal. The Election Commission's visit to Tamil Nadu and Puducherry signifies the commencement of its proactive, on-ground assessment strategy for all poll-bound regions. This step underscores the commission's commitment to conducting elections with the highest standards of integrity and efficiency across the nation.
The review findings from Tamil Nadu and Puducherry will likely inform and streamline the commission's approach for the subsequent assessments in the other states. This systematic evaluation is a standard pre-election procedure designed to identify and address any potential challenges well in advance, thereby minimizing disruptions on polling day.
This announcement, reported by PTI on February 20, 2026, highlights the Election Commission's forward-looking agenda as it gears up for a significant electoral cycle involving multiple states and union territories.
