Kolathur Upset: DMK Chief Stalin Falls Behind as TVK Candidate Babu Leads
M. K. Stalin trails in Kolathur as TVK’s VS Babu takes lead.
In a major upset in the Kolathur Assembly constituency, M. K. Stalin is trailing behind V. S. Babu of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) in a closely watched multi-cornered contest. According to Election Commission data, Stalin has secured 44,541 votes and is trailing by around 8,455 votes, while Babu has crossed the 52,000-vote mark.
The development marks a significant challenge for the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) chief in what has traditionally been considered one of his strongholds. The contest has drawn considerable attention due to Stalin’s prominence in state politics and the unexpected surge of TVK in its electoral debut. Meanwhile, All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) candidate P. Santhana Krishnan has polled over 12,926 votes, remaining a distant third.
At the state level, TVK, led by actor-turned-politician Vijay, is emerging as a dominant force, leading in over 100 seats. Trends indicate the party is ahead in around 106 constituencies, followed by the AIADMK-led alliance with about 55 seats and the DMK with approximately 54. The numbers suggest a potential reshaping of Tamil Nadu’s long-standing two-party political structure.
Also Read: Vijay’s TVK Emerges As Major Force, Leading In 109 Tamil Nadu Seats
Stalin’s campaign in Kolathur focused heavily on the DMK government’s performance over the past five years, highlighting welfare schemes, social policy initiatives, and administrative achievements. However, the rise of TVK has introduced a new dynamic, with the party attracting significant support, particularly among younger voters and those seeking an alternative to traditional Dravidian parties.
V. S. Babu, a seasoned politician, has emerged as a surprise challenger in the constituency. A former DMK MLA who represented Purasawalkam between 2006 and 2011, Babu joined TVK in February 2026 and brought with him decades of political experience. His candidacy appears to have resonated with voters in Kolathur, contributing to the current lead over Stalin.
Beyond Kolathur, TVK’s performance across regions such as Chennai, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, and Thiruvallur indicates growing inroads into areas traditionally dominated by DMK and AIADMK. Celebrations were reported among TVK supporters, with party workers gathering and security heightened outside Vijay’s residence. As counting continues, the outcome in Kolathur and across Tamil Nadu could signal a significant shift in the state’s political landscape.
Also Read: Madras High Court Directs Income Tax Department to File Reply on Vijay Affidavit Discrepancies
