Tamil Nadu (a southern Indian state known for its Dravidian-style politics) is preparing for its 234-seat Assembly election on April 23, 2026, with parties including the incumbent DMK, the rival AIADMK, and the Tamil nationalist NTK having released manifestos promising a range of welfare schemes and infrastructure pledges. Voters and campaigners face an added challenge this season: the India Meteorological Department has warned of an above-normal number of heatwave days across the country between April and June, prompting community leaders to urge residents to hydrate before heading to polling stations. Turnout remains a particular concern in Chennai, which has consistently lagged behind the state average — recording around 61–62% in both 2016 and 2021, compared to a statewide average approaching 74%.