Rajapalayam election results 2026: TVC’s Jegadeshwari K secures convincing win, defeats DMK’s Thangapandian S by 10,605 votes

In a closely watched contest, Jegadeshwari K of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) emerged victorious, securing 65,548 votes and defeating DMK candidate Thangapandian S, who polled 54,943 votes. The winner registered a clear margin of 10,605 votes, marking a significant gain for TVC in the constituency. Rajapalayam, located in Virudhunagar district, has witnessed close contests between the DMK and AIADMK over the years. The constituency is known for its textile industry and vibrant rural-urban mix.In the 2021 Assembly elections, DMK’s S. Thangappandian won with 74,787 votes, defeating AIADMK’s K. Gopalsamy by a narrow margin of 3,898 votes. He had previously secured victory in 2016 with an identical vote count of 74,787, defeating AIADMK’s A. A. S. Shyam by 4,802 votes. In 2011, the seat was held by AIADMK’s K. Gopalsamy, who secured 80,125 votes.Historically, since the 1977 elections, the AIADMK has won the constituency five times, while the DMK has secured four victories, highlighting the highly competitive nature of the seat. The 2026 campaign is centered around issues such as welfare schemes, industrial growth in the textile sector, and law and order. While the DMK alliance emphasizes social justice and its governance record, the opposition—including a resurgent BJP alliance—has targeted the government over corruption allegations and infrastructure concerns.