With Assembly elections held between April 9 and April 29 now complete, focus has shifted to the counting of votes on May 4. Across West Bengal, Assam, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Puducherry, several crucial constituencies are expected to decide the final results. Nearly 20 key seats have emerged as major battlegrounds where tight contests could influence the overall political outcome.
The Bharatiya Janata Party aims to retain power in Assam while expanding its footprint in southern states. Meanwhile, the Trinamool Congress is focused on defending its dominance in West Bengal against a strong BJP challenge.
In Tamil Nadu, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam-led alliance faces the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam-BJP combine, along with the rising presence of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam. Kerala continues its traditional rivalry between the Left Democratic Front and the United Democratic Front, while the BJP is attempting to build on its recent gains.
West Bengal sees intense political battles
West Bengal remains one of the most closely watched states. In Bhabanipur, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee faces BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari in a high-profile contest. The outcome could significantly impact Banerjee’s political standing.
Nandigram continues to be symbolically important. Suvendu Adhikari is contesting against TMC’s Pabitra Kar in a seat known for its history and close results in previous elections.
Other key contests include Kharagpur Sadar, where Dilip Ghosh is facing TMC’s Pradip Sarkar, and Asansol Dakshin, where Agnimitra Paul is contesting Tapas Banerjee.
Murshidabad is also under focus, with BJP’s Gouri Sankar Ghosh taking on TMC’s Shaoni Singha Roy. In Moyna, former cricketer Ashoke Dinda is contesting for the BJP.
Bhangar remains a sensitive seat, where TMC’s Saokat Molla faces ISF’s Nawsad Siddique. In Diamond Harbour, TMC’s Pannalal Halder is up against BJP’s Dipak Kumar Halder.
Exit polls show mixed trends, with some favouring the BJP and others predicting a strong TMC performance, leaving the outcome uncertain.
Assam contests test BJP’s hold
In Assam, the BJP is looking to retain power. Jalukbari is a crucial seat where Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma is seeking another term. He faces Congress candidate Bidisha Neog and independent Dipika Das.
Guwahati Central presents a generational contest between BJP’s Vijay Kumar Gupta and young leader Kunki Chowdhury of the Assam Jatiya Parishad. In Jorhat, BJP veteran Hitendra Nath Goswami is contesting against Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi.
Binnakandi, a newly formed constituency, has a three-way contest. Badruddin Ajmal is attempting a comeback, facing candidates from AGP and AJP.
Exit polls suggest that the BJP-led alliance holds an advantage in the state.
Tamil Nadu sees multi-cornered fight
Tamil Nadu is witnessing a complex contest with multiple players. In Chepauk-Thiruvallikeni, Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin is contesting, aiming to retain the DMK’s stronghold.
Perambur has gained attention due to actor Vijay entering politics through TVK. His presence could influence voter behaviour, especially in Chennai.
Kolathur remains significant as it is represented by Chief Minister M K Stalin. Meanwhile, Edappadi continues to be a strong base for opposition leader Edappadi K Palaniswami.
Karur has become a key constituency after a tragic stampede at a political rally in 2025. Multiple candidates from major parties are contesting here, making it a closely watched seat.
Exit polls indicate a three-way contest, with some predicting gains for TVK and others favouring the DMK alliance, while the AIADMK-BJP combine remains competitive.
Kerala maintains traditional rivalry
Kerala continues its long-standing political contest between the LDF and UDF. In Dharmadom, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan is seeking re-election. Paravur sees opposition leader V D Satheesan aiming for another victory, facing strong competition from CPI candidates.
Thrissur, often seen as a decisive seat, has a tight three-way contest involving CPI, Congress, and BJP candidates. A small shift in votes here could change the result.
Exit polls suggest a slight edge for the UDF, though the contest remains close.
Puducherry sees focused contests
In Puducherry, key constituencies are drawing attention despite the smaller Assembly. In Thattanchavady, Congress leader V Vaithilingam faces Chief Minister N Rangasamy.
Raj Bhavan features a contest between BJP’s V P Ramalingam and DMK’s Vignesh Kannan. In Lawspet, V Saminathan of TVK faces AINRC’s VP Sivakolundhu. Thirubhuvanai is witnessing a three-way contest among major candidates, adding to the competitive environment.
Exit polls indicate that the BJP-led NDA may have an advantage in the Union Territory.
High-stakes results expected
With several close contests, shifting alliances, and mixed exit poll predictions, these battleground seats are likely to shape the political direction in each state. As counting begins on May 4, all eyes will remain on these constituencies for early trends and decisive outcomes.