Tamil Nadu Assembly Polls: Stalin, EPS, Vijay Contest Key Constituencies
Five key Tamil Nadu constituencies witness high-stakes contests as CM candidates Stalin, EPS, Vijay campaign.
With Assembly elections scheduled for April 23, Tamil Nadu is witnessing a four-cornered political contest, with five constituencies emerging as crucial battlegrounds that could shape the state’s leadership. Kolathur, Edappadi, Perambur, Trichy East, and Karaikudi are attracting heightened attention, both for the prominent candidates contesting from these seats and the pressing local issues that voters face.
In Kolathur, Chennai, incumbent Chief Minister MK Stalin is seeking re-election. A residential area in north-west Chennai, Kolathur has been a high-profile seat since 2011, and gained further prominence when Stalin became chief minister in 2021. While several development projects have been implemented, residents continue to face issues such as waterlogging during the monsoon. Despite these challenges, Stalin remains the frontrunner, though the entry of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) could influence vote shares.
Edappadi in Salem is the home turf of Leader of the Opposition Edappadi K. Palaniswami. A dominant political figure since 1989, Palaniswami enjoys strong local support, with residents crediting him for improvements in infrastructure, including roads and street lighting. The constituency is widely seen as favourable for him, although he faces a challenge from DMK candidate C. Kasi.
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Perambur in North Chennai is emerging as a high-stakes contest with actor-turned-politician Vijay making his electoral debut. The working-class constituency has historically been a left stronghold and continues to grapple with civic infrastructure issues, the long-standing demand to relocate the Kodungaiyur dump yard, traffic congestion, and safety concerns. With multiple challenges facing residents, the Perambur race is shaping up as a closely fought battle between the DMK and TVK.
Trichy East, represented by DMK’s Inigo S. Irudayaraj, is another key battleground where Vijay is also contesting. Traditionally a DMK stronghold, the constituency sees minority votes playing a decisive role. Local issues such as traffic management, urban infrastructure, and civic services are expected to influence voter sentiment, making the contest highly competitive.
Finally, Karaikudi in Sivagangai, historically a Congress stronghold, has become a high-profile seat with the entry of NTK coordinator Seeman. The constituency has a diverse social composition, including communities such as Mukkulathor, Devendrakula Vellalars, Mutharaiyar, and Chettiars, all of which could shape the electoral outcome. With multiple parties including Congress, TVK, and AMMK in the fray, Karaikudi is set to be a closely watched contest in the 2026 elections.
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