The Times of India

Chief Minister M.K. Stalin fiercely responded to AIADMK leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami's remarks, asserting his fearlessness of death and commitment to serving Tamil Nadu. Stalin highlighted his government's achievements, contrasting them with AIADMK's past 'Koovathur drama,' and accused the BJP of using Palaniswami for 'dangerous plans' in the state.

Mylapore's historic constituency sees a tight electoral battle. Incumbent MLA Dha Velu faces a challenge from BJP's Tamilisai Soundarajan, with AIADMK's absence making its vote crucial. NTK's Brahmin candidate and TVK's youth appeal add further complexity to the evolving urban demographic.

AIADMK leader Edappadi K Palaniswami backed the Election Commission's transfer of the chief secretary, accusing CM Stalin of relying on bureaucrats over public support. Palaniswami also warned DMK MP Kanimozhi about her pending 2G spectrum case, suggesting she could face jail time again.

Avinashi, an AIADMK stronghold, sees a surprising electoral contest. Union Minister L Murugan of BJP faces 28-year-old political novice V Gokilamani from DMK, a doctor chosen to appeal to Arunthathiyar voters and promote young leadership. AIADMK's strategic decision to cede the seat to BJP adds complexity, with smaller parties potentially influencing the outcome.

Tamil Nadu CM M K Stalin seeks a second consecutive term, campaigning on his 'Dravidian Model 2.0' and highlighting welfare schemes. He frames the election as a Centre vs. state battle, positioning himself as protector of Tamil rights against the BJP.

Tamil Nadu's Naam Tamilar Katchi chief Seeman rejects poll freebies, positioning himself as a moral dissenter. His nationalist platform, emphasizing Tamil rights, has steadily grown his party's vote share despite electoral setbacks. Seeman, a former filmmaker, champions Tamil identity and Sri Lankan Tamils, drawing crowds with his fiery oratory and promises of quality governance.

A surprising development unfolded in Ambattur as Shiv Sena (UBT) volunteers, draped in saffron, joined a DMK campaign rally. These local Tamil members, drawn to the party's Hindutva stance, pledged support for DMK candidate Dr. A.P. Poornima, citing their 3,000-vote base and hopes for addressing civic issues like sewage and water supply in their settlements.

Egmore, a historic Chennai constituency, faces a unique electoral battle with all major parties fielding first-time contestants. DMK's Prasanna Sundaram, AIADMK's Abhishek Rangasamy, TVK's Rajmohan, and NTK's Saranya E Imran are vying for votes in this diverse urban seat. Voters anticipate a significant shift as new faces promise change.

V.K. Sasikala is campaigning from her vehicle, reminiscent of Jayalalithaa's roadshows, targeting voters in south Tamil Nadu. She criticizes rivals, evokes memories of her association with Jayalalithaa, and positions herself as a selfless leader. Her campaign, featuring candidates in 75 constituencies, aims to secure Thevar votes, drawing parallels to the late leader's persona.

Virudhunagar's assembly election hinges on DMDK scion Vijaya Prabhakaran's bid to inherit his father's legacy. Contesting with DMK support, he aims to leverage Vijayakant's popularity and caste arithmetic against AIADMK's consolidated alliance. The outcome will reveal if the son can succeed and if DMDK can revive its fortunes.

Kanimozhi criticised Palaniswami for his remarks about chief minister M K Stalin at an election campaign in Chennais T Nagar on Wednesday.

Campaigning for MDMK candidate Senthil Nathan in Modakkurichi assembly constituency in Erode district, Durai told reporters that Vijay was a major star with the strong support of the youth, similar to actors like Suriya and Ajith.

Former minister and senior AIADMK leader S P Velumani held an interactive session with a group of Ajith fans during a campaign at Selvapuram.

Tamil Nadu's political parties are centering their election promises on women, but scheme names often reflect traditional, patriarchal views. While some initiatives like 'Pudhumai Penn' are progressive, others like 'Kula Vilakku' and 'Illatharasi' reinforce outdated family roles, despite rising female independence and workforce participation in the state. This highlights a disconnect between policy language and social evolution.

Chief Minister M.K. Stalin criticized AIADMK leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami for lowering political discourse and accused him of surrendering Tamil Nadu's rights to the BJP. Stalin highlighted the state's economic growth under DMK rule and condemned the Prime Minister's remarks on women's free bus travel, warning of potential scheme discontinuation if the NDA wins.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, VCK chief Thol Thirumavalavan, and DMDK general secretary Premallatha Vijayakant launched a joint attack on AIADMK and BJP in Cuddalore. Stalin alleged the NDA would halt welfare programs if AIADMK wins, while Premallatha predicted election results would humble AIADMK's arrogance.

In a surprising twist in Tamil Nadu's assembly elections, Leema Rose Martin, the AIADMK candidate from Lalgudi and spouse of lottery tycoon Santiago Martin, has reported a staggering wealth of Rs 1,049.5 crore. This declaration positions her as the richest candidate in the race. Her financial disclosures include hefty investments in real estate, gaming ventures, and the hospitality industry.