TVK makes early gains in Tamil Nadu by-elections

With the fifth round of counting complete in Dharapuram, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam candidate P Sathyabama holds a 724-vote advantage over her AIADMK rival. The early results suggest a competitive shift in the state’s by-elections, as the party also marks a strong opening performance in the Madurantakam constituency.

Editorial·October 9, 2026·reads: 857

TVK makes early gains in Tamil Nadu by-elections

In the Madurantakam Assembly seat, TVK’s K Maragatham Kumaravel has secured an early lead of 1,607 votes after two rounds of counting. The constituency, located in the Chengalpattu district, saw a high voter turnout of 86.26 percent. Both Madurantakam and Dharapuram seats became vacant following the resignations of the current frontrunners, who are now seeking re-election under the TVK banner.

Beyond Tamil Nadu, the All India NR Congress is showing dominance in the Thattanchavady by-election. Candidate Ashok Anand currently leads by 6,774 votes after three rounds, significantly outpacing his nearest challenger, E Vinayagam of the Indian National Congress. Election officials confirmed that counting is ongoing across five assembly seats spanning West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Puducherry, alongside a Lok Sabha contest in Assam. The entire electoral process is set to conclude before October 11.