TN bypoll notification puts spotlight on TVK ticket plans for ex-AIADMK MLAs
EC notifies bypolls for two TN seats. TVK's decision on fielding resigned AIADMK MLAs is now the key political question.
The Election Commission of India has notified the bypoll schedule for two of the seven vacant Assembly constituencies in Tamil Nadu, shifting political focus to the ruling TVK's candidate selection for these seats.
The vacancies arose after a series of resignations by rebel AIADMK MLAs who supported the TVK-led coalition government during the confidence motion. Among those who resigned were Maragatham Kumaravel from Madurantakam and P. Sathyabama from Dharapuram, both reserved constituencies. They subsequently joined the TVK.
Other MLAs who resigned and joined the ruling party include S. Jayakumar (Perundurai), Esakki Subbaiah (Ambasamudram), C. Vijayabaskar (Viralimalai), and M.R. Vijayabhaskar (Karur). Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay also vacated his Tiruchi East seat after winning from two constituencies.
However, the EC could only notify bypolls for Madurantakam and Dharapuram. Election petitions challenging results in five other constituencies have legally barred the poll body from announcing elections there. Voting for these two seats is scheduled for October 6.
P. Sathyabama has indicated she will seek a ticket from the TVK for the Dharapuram bypoll, while leaving the final decision to the party leadership. Maragatham Kumaravel declined to comment on her plans for Madurantakam.
Meanwhile, the opposition AIADMK has confirmed its intention to contest. Former minister R.B. Udhayakumar stated the party will field candidates, with the official announcement expected from its general secretary.