DMK retains much of its vote bank despite going it alone, reinforces position as the principal rival of TVK

By The Hindu Staff

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DMK retains much of its vote bank despite going it alone, reinforces position as the principal rival of TVK — Photo credit: The Hindu

The outcome of the byelection to the Madurantakam and Dharapuram Reserved Assembly constituencies has reinforced the DMK’s position as the principal alternative to the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK).

The DMK’s second-place finish in both constituencies suggests it has retained much of its vote base. This is significant given that the party contested without most of its erstwhile allies, suggesting that an united alliance could improve its electoral prospects. The Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK), which joined the DMK-led alliance ahead of the Assembly election in June, was an exception.

In Dharapuram, the DMK’s vote count fell to 57,370 from 64,373 in the Assembly election but one needs to account for the declined voter turnout in the constituency as well compared to April 2026. Besides, the decline could be attributed to the absence of its former allies, including the Congress, the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), the Communist parties, and the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML).

Originally published by The Hindu on Oct 9, 2026 Read the full article at thehindu.com

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