Counting of votes for the 234-member Assembly in Tamil Nadu is underway, with early trends indicating a strong surge by actor-turned-politician C. Joseph Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). As of 11:20 a.m. on Monday (May 4, 2026), TVK is leading in 105 constituencies, positioning itself as the frontrunner in a tightly contested election.
According to the Election Commission of India (ECI), the AIADMK-led alliance is ahead in 75 seats, while the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK)-led alliance trails with leads in 47 constituencies. The election, held in a single phase on April 23, recorded a voter turnout of 85.1%, with approximately 4.8 crore votes cast.
The counting process is being conducted across 62 designated centres, covering votes from 75,064 polling stations, including postal ballots. To ensure smooth proceedings, around 1.25 lakh security personnel have been deployed, and QR code-based Photo Identity Cards have been made mandatory for all officials and observers inside counting venues.
The election has evolved into a high-stakes three-cornered battle between the DMK, its traditional rival All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), and the emerging force TVK. While most exit polls had predicted an advantage for the DMK alliance, some, including Axis My India, projected a significant breakthrough for TVK, estimating it could secure between 98 and 120 seats.
Also under scrutiny is the performance of Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK), led by filmmaker-turned-politician Seeman. The party has fielded candidates in all 234 constituencies, notably ensuring nearly 50% representation for women along with one transgender candidate, marking a progressive approach in the electoral contest.
As counting continues, all eyes remain on whether TVK can sustain its early lead and reshape Tamil Nadu’s political landscape.
