TVK Triumphs in Tamil Nadu Bypolls, Strengthening Government's Position

In a significant political development, the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) has won the Madurantakam and Dharapuram Assembly by-elections, enhancing the ruling government's position in Tamil Nadu. Candidates Maragatham Kumaravel and Sathyabama defeated their DMK rivals, leading to celebrations among party workers. The victories are seen as a validation of the government's performance and provide fresh momentum for the TVK following a competitive campaign. With impressive voter turnout in both constituencies, the results carry substantial implications for the political landscape in the state. This outcome not only boosts the ruling party's confidence but also prompts the opposition to reassess their strategies.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 9, 2026, 17:24 IST

Victory for Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam in Bypolls

Photo: IANS

Chennai, Oct 9: The Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) has emerged victorious in the recent by-elections for the Madurantakam and Dharapuram Assembly seats. Candidates Maragatham Kumaravel and Sathyabama successfully defeated their DMK opponents, leading to celebrations among party supporters and reinforcing the political standing of Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay's administration in Tamil Nadu.

Maragatham Kumaravel won in Madurantakam with a margin of 17,554 votes, while Sathyabama claimed victory in Dharapuram by 10,196 votes.

The DMK secured second place in both constituencies, followed by the AIADMK.

Ministers hailed these dual victories as a validation of the TVK government's performance over the last four months.

This outcome provides the TVK with renewed political momentum following a competitive campaign involving the state's major political parties.

In Madurantakam, Kumaravel garnered 61,470 votes, outpacing DMK candidate Paranthaman, who received 43,916 votes.

AIADMK's Ganitha Sampath finished third with 38,770 votes, while Naam Tamilar Katchi's Janakiraman and CPI(M)'s Sugandhi received 1,703 and 1,441 votes, respectively.

A total of 27 candidates contested in this seat, with counting completed in 21 rounds.

Out of 2,13,788 registered voters in Madurantakam, 1,84,413 participated in the election, resulting in a turnout of 86.26%.

This turnout surpassed that of Dharapuram, where just over 80% of the electorate cast their votes.

In Dharapuram, Sathyabama achieved 62,596 votes, defeating DMK's Sukanya, who received 52,400 votes.

AIADMK's Bhanumathi came in third with 41,078 votes, while Naam Tamilar Katchi's Karthika and CPI's Lakshmanan received 4,954 and 1,099 votes, respectively.

A total of 22 candidates participated in this constituency, with votes counted over 23 rounds. Dharapuram saw an 80.30% turnout, with 1,79,314 of its 2,23,306 registered voters casting their ballots.

The by-elections were necessitated by the resignation of legislators elected on AIADMK tickets, who joined the TVK, thus opening these two seats for new electoral contests and allowing the ruling party to showcase its support.

The campaign featured a five-way contest among the TVK, DMK, AIADMK, Left parties, and Naam Tamilar Katchi.

The stakes were high, and the results hold significant implications for both the government and its rivals.

TVK supporters celebrated joyfully as the results were announced. These victories provide reassurance to the ruling party after a tense campaign, while the DMK and AIADMK are left to reflect on their inability to secure either seat.

Though limited to two constituencies, this outcome offers a political boost to CM Vijay's administration and allows the TVK to present these wins as a sign of ongoing voter confidence.