Tamil Nadu bypolls: TVK, DMK, AIADMK face multi-cornered contest in Madurantakam, Dharapuram

In Tamil Nadu, campaigning intensifies ahead of assembly by-elections in the reserved constituencies of Madurantakam and Dharapuram. The contest features a multi-cornered fight involving the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), DMK, AIADMK, Naam Tamilar Katchi, and the Left. The by-polls follow the resignation and defection of two AIADMK MLAs to the TVK. Chief Minister Vijay conducted rural campaigns, while the DMK and AIADMK raised allegations regarding defections, model code violations, and voter inducements. Key electoral factors include agrarian challenges, water management concerns surrounding the PAP Upar Dam and Nallathangal canal, Magalir Urumai Thogai payouts, and regional caste demographics. Meanwhile, in Karnataka, political confrontation escalates over the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls, with Chief Minister DK Shivakumar alleging the misuse of Form 7 for voter deletions, while the NDA has filed counter-complaints of administrative interference. Additionally, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu outlines an economic policy roadmap focusing on investments in green energy, data centres, aerospace manufacturing, and the Quantum Valley initiative.