Tamil Nadu is witnessing a major political shift, said Vishal Lodha, political analyst based in Chennai.

“As per current trends, TVK has emerged as the single-largest party with leads in over 100 seats, but it is still short of the 118-seat majority mark,” he said.

“If this position continues, smaller parties may hold significant leverage in government formation. The next few rounds of counting will be crucial in deciding whether TVK secures a clear majority or has to depend on post-poll support.”

“For now, the message from the electorate appears clear: Tamil Nadu politics is entering a new phase,” he added.

The state is witnessing an intense three-cornered contest involving the ruling DMK, led by Chief Minister MK Stalin, its main rival AIADMK, which is in alliance with the BJP, and the new entrant, actor-politician Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK).

The DMK and AIADMK have traded election wins and rotated governments since for many decades. (SS)