Chennai, 21 April (H.S.):With the high-stakes Tamil Nadu Assembly elections just two days away, campaigning will come to a close across the state at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, ushering in the mandatory 48-hour silence period.

The April 23 polls will be conducted in a single phase across all 234 constituencies, with polling scheduled from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Over 5.73 crore voters are eligible to cast their ballots in what is expected to be a keenly contested election.

In the final leg of campaigning, Chief Minister M. K. Stalin is focusing on his home turf Kolathur with door-to-door outreach and direct voter engagement, while Leader of the Opposition Edappadi K. Palaniswami is concluding his campaign in Salem through a series of meetings with party workers and voters.

Senior leaders across parties have fanned out for last-minute canvassing, seeking to consolidate support and mobilise voters ahead of polling day.

Among other leaders, Seeman is scheduled to campaign in Karaikudi, while Vijay will continue his outreach in Chennai. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge is also expected to address a public meeting in Thiruvanmiyur as part of the DMK-led alliance’s final push.

The Election Commission has reiterated that all forms of campaigning, including public meetings, rallies, and processions, will be prohibited after 6 p.m. Any election-related content on electronic platforms, including social media, will also be barred during the silence period.

Authorities have warned that violations of the Model Code of Conduct could invite strict penalties, including imprisonment and fines. Non-voters have been directed to leave constituencies after the deadline, and vehicle permits issued to candidates will be withdrawn.

Liquor sales will remain suspended across the state for three days from Tuesday evening, while strict monitoring will be in place to prevent inducements and ensure free and fair polling.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman