Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam wins both Tamil Nadu by-elections

Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), led by Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay, won both the Madurantakam and Dharapuram Assembly by-elections in Tamil Nadu. The victories saw TVK candidates Maragatham Kumaravel and P. Sathyabama defeat candidates from the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK).

Vijay characterized the results as a triumph of people’s power over money power and a rejection of personal attacks. He noted that the wins were achieved without electoral inducements. The AIADMK, which previously held these seats, failed to reclaim them, while the DMK maintained much of its vote share despite the losses.

Political reactions were varied. VCK leader Thol Thirumavalavan suggested the results were a win for the ruling alliance, while AIADMK leaders criticized the outcome as a result of the ruling party’s use of financial and administrative influence. Meanwhile, Left parties (CPM and CPI) acknowledged the defeat but asserted they would continue their political struggle for workers and farmers.