Chennai, Apr 23:
Chennai, Apr 23: Tamil Nadu recorded an approximate 17 per cent voter turnout till 9 am on Thursday, as polling progressed steadily across Tamil Nadu in the ongoing Assembly elections.
Voting began at 7 am across all constituencies, with voters turning up early at polling booths in several districts. Election officials reported brisk participation in both urban and rural areas during the initial hours.
Prominent leaders, including Chief Minister M. K. Stalin and AIADMK leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami, were among those who cast their votes early in the day. Actor-politician Vijay and Naam Tamilar Katchi chief Seeman also exercised their franchise, drawing public attention.
Polling is being held under tight security arrangements, with authorities closely monitoring sensitive and vulnerable locations to ensure a peaceful voting process.
Officials expect the turnout percentage to rise significantly as the day progresses, with more voters likely to visit polling stations in the coming hours