Tamil Nadu and Kerala Officials Coordinate to Prevent Duplicate Voter Registration for 2026 Assembly Elections
A crucial inter-state coordination meeting was convened in Coimbatore on Wednesday to discuss comprehensive preparatory measures for the upcoming 2026 assembly elections, with a primary focus on preventing duplicate voter registration in border villages shared between Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
High-Level Participation and Key Discussions
The meeting was chaired by Coimbatore district collector and district election officer Pavankumar G Giriyappanavar. It saw the participation of collectors and police chiefs from Ernakulam, Idukki, Palakkad, and Thrissur districts in Kerala. Senior police and election officers from both states also attended, with some joining through videoconference to ensure broad representation.
Officials engaged in detailed discussions on forming special teams tasked with identifying voters in border revenue villages who may have enrolled in electoral rolls in both Tamil Nadu and Kerala. These teams will conduct thorough verification drives, and copies of voter lists will be shared between the two states to enhance coordination and accuracy.
Law and Order Preparedness and Security Measures
The meeting included a comprehensive review of law and order preparedness in constituencies along the Kerala border. Officials examined details of seizures made and FIRs registered over the past six months in assembly and parliamentary constituencies bordering Kerala, along with the current status of these cases.
Measures to prevent the illegal movement of cash, precious metals, narcotic substances, liquor, freebies, weapons, and other materials were also a key topic. It was decided to strengthen inter-state border check-posts and forest check-posts by:
- Forming special squads for enhanced surveillance
- Installing CCTV cameras at strategic locations
- Deploying additional police personnel to bolster security
Joint Monitoring and Election Integrity
The meeting deliberated on forming joint teams to monitor sensitive and vulnerable polling stations where clashes are anticipated. This proactive approach aims to ensure a smooth electoral process and maintain peace during the elections.
Officials emphasized that the coordination between Tamil Nadu and Kerala would play a vital role in ensuring free and fair elections in the border districts. By addressing issues such as duplicate voter registration and enhancing security measures, both states are working towards a transparent and orderly electoral process for 2026.
