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The race is being seen as a critical moment for the state’s politics, with questions over governance, identity, and the future of the “Dravidian model” dominating the debate.
Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister and DMK Youth Wing Secretary Udhayanidhi Stalin during a roadshow. (PTI photo)
The campaign for the 234-seat Tamil Nadu Assembly election, scheduled for April 23, has turned into a fierce political contest between the ruling DMK-led alliance, the AIADMK-NDA combine, and actor Vijay’s newly launched Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK).
The race is being seen as a critical moment for the state’s politics, with questions over governance, identity, and the future of the “Dravidian model” dominating the debate.
TVK entry shakes politics
Actor Vijay’s entry into politics through TVK has emerged as a major talking point. The party, launched in February 2024 and allotted the “whistle” symbol, is contesting all 234 seats on its own.
Vijay is making his electoral debut from Perambur and Tiruchirappalli East. While his entry has energised younger voters, it has also raised concerns among established parties about a possible split in opposition votes.
The campaign has also seen incidents of tension, including a stone being thrown at a TVK candidate’s vehicle in Arumbakkam.
‘House arrest’ allegation sparks row
A major controversy erupted after AIADMK leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) alleged that DMK chief MK Stalin kept his father, late Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi, under “house arrest” during his final days.
The remarks, based on a viral audio clip, triggered strong backlash from DMK leaders, who called the claim baseless and defamatory. EPS further said an inquiry would be ordered if the AIADMK returned to power, intensifying the political war of words.
‘Saffron Lies’ and Dravidian vs Delhi battle
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has strongly attacked the BJP-led Centre, accusing it of spreading what he called “saffron lies” about the state’s development.
Speaking at rallies, he said Tamil Nadu leads in several social and economic indicators and alleged that the AIADMK has “surrendered state autonomy” to the BJP. Stalin has repeatedly framed the election as a “Tamil Nadu vs Delhi” contest, claiming that the AIADMK has become subservient to the BJP.
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Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin also echoed similar views, calling the election a fight against what he described as a “hostile Delhi team”. He urged voters to support the “Dravidian model 2.0″, saying the April 23 Assembly election is crucial to continue development and welfare initiatives in the state.
Personal attacks and exchanges
The election campaign has seen a sharp rise in personal attacks between the DMK and AIADMK, with leaders trading accusations beyond policy issues. DMK Members of Parliament strongly condemned AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) for what they called “derogatory” remarks against Kanimozhi Karunanidhi. They accused him of repeatedly crossing political limits and making comments that undermine women leaders, saying such rhetoric reflects growing political desperation ahead of the polls.
EPS, however, has hit back at the DMK, intensifying his criticism of the ruling party. He has described the DMK as a “corporate company” controlled by a single family, arguing that it no longer functions as a public service party. He also accused the DMK of copying AIADMK policies and election promises, claiming that the ruling party lacks originality and is attempting to mislead voters.
(With inputs from agencies)
April 13, 2026, 00:25 IST
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