Voting ended across Tamil Nadu on Thursday as citizens turned out to elect representatives for all 234 Assembly constituencies, with early turnout reaching 17.69% by 9 am, according to the Election Commission. The polling conducted in a single phase ended at 6:00 pm, amid tight security arrangements across the state.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin cast his vote in Chennai along with his son and Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin and other family members. Stalin, who is seeking re-election from the Kolathur constituency, is contesting in a closely watched multi-cornered battle that includes candidates from major political rivals and emerging parties.

In Kolathur, Stalin faces competition from V.S. Babu of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), P. Santhana Krishnan of the AIADMK, and Soundara Pandian Louther Seth of Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK). The constituency remains a stronghold for Stalin, who secured a decisive victory in the 2021 elections with over 1.05 lakh votes and a large margin over his nearest rival.

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Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin is also contesting from the Chepauk–Triplicane constituency, where he is up against candidates from AIADMK, NTK, and TVK. The presence of multiple parties, including actor Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, has added new dynamics to several constituencies, turning some contests into triangular or multi-cornered battles.

Former Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam also exercised his franchise along with his family in Periyakulam. He is contesting from the Bodinayakkanur constituency following recent political shifts. The seat features a crowded field with candidates from several parties including VCK, NTK, AMMK, TVK, and independent contenders, reflecting the fragmented nature of the race.

Across the state, early voting trends showed regional variation. The election is being closely watched as a key contest between the DMK-led alliance and the AIADMK-led opposition alliance, with the entry of TVK adding further unpredictability to the outcome.

The results of the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections are scheduled to be announced on May 4, alongside results from other states where polling is underway.

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