- By Aditya Jha
- Fri, 24 Apr 2026 01:21 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Tamil Nadu Polls: The polling for the Tamil Nadu Assembly election was held in a single phase on Thursday, with the southern state registering 85 per cent voter turnout, the highest ever since independence. A long queue of voters was seen in most of the polling booths throughout the day. The voting pattern of Tamil Nadu could be a matter of concern for the MK Stalin-led DMK alliance, as higher turnout has led to a change in government in the southern state historically.
Does DMK Need To Worry?
Earlier in the 2011 assembly election, the voting percentage increased significantly to over 78 per cent, leading to an embarrassing defeat for the DMK back then. The anti-incumbency developed due to several factors, including power shortages, inflation, and the 2G scam. The AIADMK, under the leadership of Jayalalitha, returned to power in 2016 despite the voter turnout dipping slightly from 2011.
While the MK Stalin has not faced any serious charge of corruption, law and order, especially in the rural regions, has been the matter of concern.
Change In Political Equation
A higher voter turnout in Tamil Nadu has led to change in the government; however, a higher voter percentage of women could be a positive sign for the ruling party. The DMK has launched several beneficiary schemes for women and youth, potentially benefitting it in the polls.
Apart from this, the entry of actor-turned-politician Vijay's TVK has made the contest triangular. The pre-poll surveys suggest that the TVK is expected to get around a 20 per cent vote share, potentially damaging both the leading alliances. The results for the Tamil Nadu Assembly election will be announced on May 4. While the DMK is contesting to retain its government, the AIADMK will try to make a comeback.