The Times of India

The anticipated consolidation of Thevar votes in southern districts has fragmented, with key leaders aligning with different parties. This political realignment occurs as AIADMK seeks to regain ground, while DMK strengthens its position by inducting expelled AIADMK leaders. The presence of new political entities and community votes further complicates the electoral landscape.

Its not easy for a full-time politician to find time for leisure time activities, especially in the run-up to the assembly election. But here is what some of TNs changemakers are up to when theyre not in the public eye

As the electoral atmosphere heats up in Chepauk-Triplicane, the spotlight is on Deputy CM Udhayanidhi Stalin, who enjoys a robust support base. While the DMK radiates confidence with backing from a steadfast Muslim constituency and various welfare initiatives, it still faces lingering concerns such as persistent parking issues and the rising cattle threat.

P Chidambaram, the ex-Union Finance Minister, has raised concerns about a potential constitutional amendment by the BJP government aiming to increase Parliament seats to an ambitious 816. He argues that this strategy coincides with the upcoming elections in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal, hinting that it could facilitate the passage of legislation in the absence of campaigning MPs.

In a passionate display of solidarity, Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and his allies have denounced the personal jabs made by AIADMK leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami against the revered late M. Karunanidhi. With vigor, Vaiko and M. Veerapandian came to Stalin's defense, praising Karunanidhi's enduring spirit while criticizing EPS for stooping to personal attacks rather than engaging in meaningful political discourse.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Tamil Nadu BJP leaders, urging them to challenge the DMK government on its financial management and the utilization of central funds. The meeting focused on developing a strong counter-narrative for the upcoming election campaign, addressing issues like language sentiment and fund allocation. Senior leaders were encouraged to boost the party's electoral performance.

In a striking announcement, Union Minister Piyush Goyal has pointed to a dire financial situation in Tamil Nadu, claiming the state's treasury is depleted and teetering on the brink of bankruptcy under the DMK administration. He criticized the government for alleged financial mismanagement and corruption, asserting that the state's debt has ballooned significantly.

During a lively debate at a recent political rally, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin confronted Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the controversial language policy. Stalin vocalized his concerns, alleging that the BJP's push for Hindi is a veiled attempt to overshadow regional languages.

He said the choice of Jothimani was a mark of respect to Illayaperumal, who had fought against caste discrimination.

The deceased have been identified as M Saravanan, a cab driver from St Thomas Mount in Chennai, and S Seenivasan, 47, of Pamban Road in Madurai.

In a bold move leading up to the 2026 Tamil Nadu assembly elections, the BJP has rolled out its candidate lineup, showcasing influential figures such as Nainar Nagenthran and Tamilisai Soundararajan. Interestingly, K Annamalai, the former state president, has been left off the list.

As elections approach, political campaigns are transcending religious and caste boundaries. Leaders from various parties are seen participating in religious ceremonies across different faiths and visiting community memorials. This strategic shift aims to consolidate a significant minority vote and appeal to all segments of the electorate.

Chief Minister M.K. Stalin's son-in-law, Sabarisan Vedamurthy, made a rare public appearance campaigning for a DMK candidate, sparking speculation about his future political role. Vedamurthy, however, insists he will continue to focus on backend strategy and supporting friends, emphasizing his commitment to providing tech and strategic support to the DMK from behind the scenes.

In Gobichettipalayam, the electoral dynamics are undergoing a seismic shift. Sengottaiyan's transition to the TVK is putting his historical Gounder support base, once solidly behind AIADMK, to the test. While actor Vijay's star power may lure a fresh wave of voters, TVK's lack of established infrastructure could prove detrimental.

In a fervent speech, PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss slammed the DMK for exploiting Dalits as mere electoral pawns, lamenting the absence of genuine support and respect for their rights. He voiced concern over the allocation of seats to VCK, suggesting it symbolizes the sidelining of Scheduled Caste representatives.

Former Tamil Nadu BJP chief K. Annamalai has voluntarily opted out of contesting the upcoming assembly elections, stating he informed the party leadership in writing. Union minister Piyush Goyal confirmed Annamalai will focus on statewide campaigning.

Minutes after BJP released its candidate list, Annamalai posted on X that he would campaign for NDA candidates.

The court made the observation while refusing to allow an appeal moved by Cognizant Technologies Solutions India challenging an order passed by a labour appellate authority quashing illegal termination of an employee who served the company for 18 years.

TVK leader K A Sengottaiyan asserted that actor Vijay's massive campaign turnouts signal public acceptance and a desire for change, drawing parallels to MGR's popularity.

Among those named is G K M Tamil Kumaran, son of PMK floor leader in TN assembly G K Mani, who joined the Congress last Saturday. He has been fielded from the vanniyar-dominated Pennagaram constituency.

The BJP has unveiled its candidate list for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, following internal discussions and cadre concerns. Notably, former state president K Annamalai is absent from this initial selection. Prominent figures like Tamilisai Soundararajan and Vanathi Srinivasan have been fielded from key constituencies, signaling the party's strategic approach for the upcoming polls.