Chennai, April 23 (IANS) The spirit of active citizenship and the importance of every vote came alive in Tamil Nadu as newly-married couples stepped out to participate in the Assembly elections, adding a unique and symbolic dimension to the democratic exercise.

In Chennai, a newlywed couple arrived at a polling station dressed in traditional wedding attire to cast their vote, drawing attention from both officials and voters present at the booth.

Sharing the moment on social media platform X, the Election Commission of India (ECI) highlighted the significance of the gesture.

“Celebrating the festival of democracy, a newly married couple in Chennai steps out together to cast their vote,” the poll body said.

“Their participation reflects the spirit of active citizenship and the importance of every vote in strengthening the democratic fabric of the nation. Step forward and cast your vote,” it added.

Similar scenes were witnessed in Ramanathapuram, where two newly-married couples turned up in wedding attire to exercise their franchise at a polling booth in the Chinnakkadai area under the Ramanathapuram Assembly constituency.

Voting is underway across all 234 Assembly constituencies in Tamil Nadu. A voter turnout of 37.56 per cent has been recorded till 11 a.m.

The key battle is between the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance and the AIADMK-led National Democratic Alliance, while Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) and actor Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) have added further intensity to the race.

According to the Election Commission, a total of 4,023 candidates are in the fray, with over 5.73 crore eligible voters expected to decide the electoral fate of the state.

Polling began early in the morning under tight security arrangements, and officials reported a steady voter turnout across districts. By 11 a.m., Tamil Nadu has recorded a voter turnout of 37.56 per cent, indicating a brisk polling trend in several regions.

Election authorities are closely monitoring the process to ensure smooth and peaceful voting throughout the day.

–IANS

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