Thiru

TVK chief Vijay will be sworn in as Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister on May 7, securing 108 seats. Despite falling short of a majority, the party plans to seek support from smaller allies to form the government. Vijay has received congratulations from Rahul Gandhi and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressing commitment to public welfare and state progress.

Aam Aadmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal questioned the BJP's unexpected surge in Delhi and West Bengal, areas previously resistant to its influence. He contrasted this with past elections, even during the 'Modi wave.' Kejriwal also lauded MK Stalin's issue-based campaign in Tamil Nadu and actor Vijay's significant debut, highlighting a generational shift in Dravidian politics.

Thiru Vi Ka Nagar faces a 'double-engine' referendum for DMK as AIADMK's Porkodi Armstrong campaigns on caste consolidation and her husband's legacy. DMK candidate K S Ravichandran, a seasoned politician, emphasizes development projects and dismisses caste politics. The constituency's diverse demographics, including SC populations and urban middle-class pockets, add complexity to the electoral landscape.

Making a remarkable electoral debut, Thalapathy Vijay has emerged as a strong political force in Tamil Nadu. The celebrations at the family residence also saw music and dancing, with members playing 'Whistle Podu' from Vijay's film 'The Greatest of All Time'. Several celebrities have also taken to social media to congratulate Vijay on his debut political victory.

Actor-turned-politician Vijay's TVK is poised to form the government in Tamil Nadu, emerging as the single-largest party but needing allies. The Congress has reportedly pledged support for a secular government, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from the DMK. Meanwhile, a faction within the AIADMK is reportedly considering backing Vijay.

Chennai witnessed a significant surge in voter turnout for the recent elections, with nearly 20,000 more people casting ballots compared to 2021. This increase, bolstered by postal votes, highlights a dynamic shift in participation across several key constituencies. While some areas saw a decline, others, like Perambur and Kolathur, recorded substantial gains, potentially influencing close electoral contests.

The estimated poll percentage released by the Election Commission of India at 1.32pm for Chennai district showed that Virugambakkam recorded the highest turnout at 59.3%, followed closely by T Nagar (Thiyagarayanagar) at 58.01%.

Tamil Nadu's voting percentage was revised to 85.10%, with Chennai seeing a significant surge to 86.2% after voter additions. The Election Commission confirmed no re-polling is needed across 75,064 stations. Karur district recorded the highest turnout at 92.65%, while Anna Nagar saw the largest increase in Chennai's votes.

Tamil Nadu's urban centers Chennai and Coimbatore are witnessing electoral shifts. DMK faces tough contests in Chennai seats previously considered safe. AIADMK is challenged in Coimbatore, a former stronghold. Political observers note that neither party may repeat past successes. Chief Minister M K Stalin has intensified campaigning in Chennai.

The superstar’s debut political campaign shows the benefits of speaking less and reaching out directly to voters. It’s also a dramatic transition for the quiet superstar who grew up on sets and waited a long time for box office success.

Chennai's high voter turnout percentage masks a decline in absolute votes cast compared to previous elections. This surge is attributed to a significantly reduced electorate following revisions. Despite fluctuating voter numbers, the city has historically seen shifts between major parties, with current contests potentially becoming multi-cornered, making vote distribution crucial for outcomes.

Between 9 am and 11 am, voter turnout in all the 16 assembly constituencies in Chennai almost doubled, rising from the mid-teens to the mid-30s and brushing 40% in a few segments,

T Porkodi Armstrong, wife of the late leader Armstrong, is campaigning for MLA in Thiru Vi Ka Nagar, focusing on civic issues like sanitation and education. She connects with voters, promising solutions like mobile toilets and CCTV cameras. Her campaign, often with her young daughter, highlights her commitment to public service and her family's legacy.

Tamil Nadu's upcoming Assembly election sees a surge in candidates, with over 4,654 set to contest, surpassing the 2021 figures. Karur boasts the highest number of valid nominations, while Ambasamudram has the fewest. A senior officer confirmed the final candidate list will be published Friday, with 14 constituencies expecting 30-37 contenders.

T Porkodi, wife of slain BSP leader K Armstrong, has entered politics as an AIADMK-backed candidate for the Thiru Vi Ka assembly seat. Her nomination follows her husband's murder, which the AIADMK uses to criticize the ruling DMK's law and order record. The party aims to leverage sympathy for Porkodi and public anger over rising crime.

AIADMK has unveiled its third list of candidates for the 2026 elections, fielding former ministers B Valarmathi and S Gokula Indira in key constituencies. The party has also announced candidates for Kolathur and Chepauk–Triplicane, setting up contests against Chief Minister MK Stalin and his son Udhayanidhi respectively.

Chennai's electoral battleground is set, with DMK leaders M K Stalin and Udhayanidhi Stalin contesting key seats. The party relies on its governance and a blend of experienced and new candidates. TVK's presence could impact close contests, while AIADMK veterans face the challenge of reconnecting with younger voters.

The ruling DMK has strategically fielded candidates in Chennai's core seats, largely avoiding alliances and setting up direct contests with AIADMK in 12 out of 15 seats. The party has introduced fresh faces, including a first-time woman councillor, while retaining key leaders like Chief Minister M K Stalin and Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin.

A notorious criminal, Thoppai Ganesan, wanted for over 30 cases including five murders, was killed in a police encounter near Madhavaram early Monday. Ganesan, tracked for a dacoity, allegedly attacked an officer when cornered. Police opened fire after he attempted to escape, leading to his death en route to the hospital.