DMK Unveils Complete Candidate List for TN Elections; CM Stalin to Contest from Kolathur
Synopsis
The DMK has finalized its candidate list for the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections on April 23, signaling a pivotal moment in the party's campaign strategy. Chief Minister M. K. Stalin will run from Kolathur, aiming to retain his seat amidst a competitive political landscape.
Key Takeaways
DMK has announced its candidates for the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.
Stalin is contesting from Kolathur.
DMK will contest 164 out of 234 seats.
Significant political shifts include O.
Panneerselvam's candidacy.
Vote counting and results are scheduled for May 4.
Chennai, March 28 (NationPress) As the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections approach on April 23, the ruling party, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), has disclosed its full roster of candidates across all constituencies, marking a significant step in its electoral strategy.
Counting of votes is set for May 4, with results announced on the same day.
This election is expected to feature a four-way contest, including the DMK-led coalition, the AIADMK-backed National Democratic Alliance (NDA), actor Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), and Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK).
The DMK aims to contest 164 out of the 234 Assembly seats, while its alliance partners will compete for the remaining 70. With these partners already announcing their candidates, Chief Minister M. K. Stalin revealed the party's complete list of candidates on Friday.
Stalin will defend his seat in the Kolathur constituency, while his son, Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, will seek re-election from Chepauk–Triplicane, which he currently holds.
In an important political turn, veteran leader O. Panneerselvam, previously expelled from the AIADMK and now allied with the DMK, will run for election in Bodinayakanur, a constituency he has successfully won several times before.
Many prominent leaders and sitting ministers are retained in their established constituencies, emphasizing the party's focus on continuity and the strength of incumbents. Key figures like Duraimurugan, P. K. Sekar Babu, E. V. Velu, K. N. Nehru, Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi, Raja Kannappan, Anitha Radhakrishnan, Geetha Jeevan, Masthan, and Senthil Balaji will contest from their respective seats.
However, in a significant seat-sharing adjustment within the alliance, the Padmanabhapuram constituency, currently held by Minister Mano Thangaraj, has been allocated to the Congress party.
The unveiling of the candidate list highlights the DMK’s preparedness to engage in a high-stakes electoral battle, with alliances, candidate selections, and constituency strategies firmly established ahead of the elections.
Point of View
The DMK's announcement of its candidates for the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections underscores the significance of strategic alliances and incumbency in regional politics. This development not only impacts local dynamics but also reflects broader trends in Indian political contests as parties vie for power.
NationPress
30 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the date of the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections?
The Tamil Nadu Assembly elections are scheduled for April 23.
Who is contesting from Kolathur?
Chief Minister M. K. Stalin will contest from the Kolathur constituency.
How many constituencies will DMK contest?
The DMK will contest 164 out of the 234 Assembly constituencies.
What is the significance of O. Panneerselvam's candidature?
O. Panneerselvam, a veteran leader, will contest from Bodinayakanur, a seat he has won multiple times, after aligning with the DMK.
When will the votes be counted?
Votes will be counted on May 4, with results declared the same day.
