The Times of India

. NTK is an exception to TN parties' unwritten motto: Woo women voters, but deny them political power

DMK had started talking to DMDK in August 2025, with E V Velu as the sole messenger; later, DMK deputy general secretary Kanimozhi Karunanidhi joined the talks. At the same time, AIADMK was also in touch with the DMDK leadership.

Padmarajan, 67, who has contested and lost in several local body, cooperative society, assembly, Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, President of India and Vice-President of India elections for almost four decades, says that he has never expected victory and that participating in polls itself is a success for him.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin extended his best wishes to Congress leader Sonia Gandhi for a swift recovery following her hospitalisation in Delhi due to a systemic infection. Stalin expressed confidence in her quick return to good health. The DMK and Congress are key allies in the INDIA bloc, with the Congress contesting 28 seats in Tamil Nadu.

In a bold move to reclaim its influence, the AIADMK is competing for 13 of the 16 Chennai parliamentary seats, positioning themselves against the ruling DMK. By fielding prominent former ministers, the party is banking on its grassroots support and strategic planning to win back voters, including minorities, despite a diminished alliance presence.

In Tamil Nadu, Election Commission flying squads are taking to the streets for extensive vehicle inspections, resulting in the confiscation of cash from everyday citizens and local merchants. Although major political fund seizures have been few, the impact on individuals is evidenta dialysis patient and a bride-to-be shopping for silks have been particularly affected.

Central Chennai, a DMK stronghold, faces a complex electoral battle where local civic issues and voter dissatisfaction could challenge the ruling party's dominance. While DMK highlights welfare achievements, opposition parties aim to capitalize on infrastructure gaps and citizen grievances, with the potential entry of Vijay's party adding an 'X' factor.

AIADMK has allocated 27 seats to BJP, limiting its presence in Coimbatore and Chennai to one seat each. Key constituencies like Tirunelveli were not allotted, with Sattur being the replacement. BJP secured only two of its 2021 winning seats, facing direct contests with Congress in some strongholds.

A new Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill, 2026, passed by Parliament, is criticized for undermining constitutional rights and Supreme Court judgments. The law redefines 'transgender persons,' removing self-determination and potentially excluding many individuals, including gender queer persons. Critics argue it attacks privacy and dignity, disregarding years of progress and stakeholder consultations.

Political parties are actively campaigning across northern constituencies. TVK and NTK candidates are engaging with voters, addressing local concerns like water supply, pollution, and environmental issues. Incumbent MLA J J Ebenzer is also reaching out, highlighting development projects and seeking re-election. Early outreach and focus on specific problems mark these initial campaign efforts.

AIADMK has announced its initial list of 23 candidates for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, prioritizing experienced former ministers. Party leaders like Edappadi K Palaniswami and K P Munusamy will contest from their established constituencies, aiming for continuity and leveraging familiarity with voters.

North Chennai's voters are a tough challenge for politicians. DMK swept all seats in 2021, but faces local anger over issues like water supply and past incidents. Key DMK leaders are expected to perform well. However, cracks in the party and the emergence of new parties like TVK and NTK could lead to unexpected results.

Over 50 families in Thirupparaithurai, Tamil Nadu, have announced a boycott of the upcoming Assembly elections. Relocated 16 years ago due to National Highway expansion, residents claim they still lack electricity, drinking water, and toilets. Despite numerous petitions to successive governments, their pleas for basic amenities have gone unanswered, leading to this drastic decision.