The Election Commission of India begins counting votes for the 2026 Assembly elections on May 4 [1].
These elections determine the composition of state legislative assemblies across several regions. The outcomes will shape local governance and are expected to impact national markets [3, 4].
Counting is scheduled to start at eight a.m. [1] across West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Assam, and the Union Territory of Puducherry [1, 3]. While trends are expected to emerge by the afternoon, the final results are projected to be available by Monday evening, May 5, 2026 [1].
In West Bengal, the process follows reports of irregularities. Repolling was ordered for 15 polling booths in the South 24 Parganas district [2]. These orders followed concerns regarding CCTV irregularities and potential EVM tampering [2].
In Assam, early projections suggest a strong showing for the Bharatiya Janata Party. Exit polls predicted the party would secure over 80 seats [5].
Regional observers noted that the timing of the final declarations remains a point of contention among analysts. Some sources expect results by Monday evening [1], while other pollsters suggest declarations may occur later in the evening [1].
"The final results are expected by Monday evening," a Livemint editorial said [1].
"Repolling begins across 15 polling booths in West Bengal's South 24 Parganas district," a Times of India liveblog said [2].
“Counting is scheduled to start at eight a.m. across West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Assam, and the Union Territory of Puducherry.”
The results of these simultaneous elections serve as a critical barometer for regional political strength and national stability. Because these states represent diverse economic and social demographics, the shift in power—particularly in West Bengal and Assam—can trigger volatility in national markets and influence the central government's ability to implement policy across India.
