Actor Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) has made a stunning debut in the Tamil Nadu elections, leading in 110 of the total 234 constituencies as of the latest trends, thereby challenging the dominance of traditional parties such as the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK).
Key statistics:
- TVK secured approximately 34.72 percent of the vote share, translating to about 1.18 crore votes.
- The AIADMK-led alliance was leading in 62 seats, while the DMK alliance was ahead in 61 seats.
- Voter turnout reached an impressive 85.1 percent, marking the highest in the state’s history.
As TVK workers began celebrating outside the party’s headquarters in Chennai, C. Joseph Vijay contested from two constituencies—Perambur and Tiruchirappalli East—and was leading in both. Notably, he maintained a margin of 6,499 votes in Tiruchirappalli East at the end of the first round of counting.
The election results indicate a significant shift in Tamil Nadu’s political landscape, breaking what had been a long-standing duopoly held by the DMK and AIADMK. TVK’s performance cut across urban centres and rural constituencies alike, including traditional DMK strongholds.
Actor Sivakarthikeyan expressed his admiration for Vijay’s achievement, stating, “Congratulations to Vijay sir for achieving such a big victory and impact in his first election.” This sentiment resonates with many observers who view TVK’s rise as indicative of a generational shift in politics.
Additionally, TVK had promised a monthly assistance of Rs.2,500 for women under 60 years of age, excluding beneficiaries of similar existing schemes—a move that may have bolstered their appeal among voters. The DMK polled around 24 percent with about 84 lakh votes, while AIADMK garnered 21 percent or approximately 73.93 lakh votes.
K Annamalai remarked on this electoral outcome by saying, “I am happy to see that in my land, people have risen in one voice and spoken – no to buying of votes, no to dynastic politics, and yes to a generational shift in politics.” As results continue to unfold, it is evident that TVK has significantly altered the electoral dynamics within Tamil Nadu.