Key test for TVK govt: Madurantakam, Dharapuram bypolls to be held on October 6, counting Oct 8
The Election Commission has scheduled by-elections for the Madurantakam and Dharapuram Assembly constituencies in Tamil Nadu on October 6. The polls are expected to be an important political test for the three-month-old Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) government.
The two constituencies are among seven Assembly seats that are currently vacant. However, bypolls have not yet been announced for Tiruchi East, Ambasamudram, Viralimalai, Perundurai and Karur, as cases connected with the elected candidates are still pending. The restriction on holding elections in these five constituencies has been extended until September 8.
The Model Code of Conduct has come into effect in Madurantakam and Dharapuram following the announcement. Candidates can submit their nominations from September 9 to 16. The papers will be examined on September 17, while September 19 is the final date for withdrawal of nominations. Counting is scheduled for October 9.
The vacancies arose after AIADMK legislators Maragatham Kumaravel and Sathyabama resigned from the Assembly and subsequently joined the TVK. Both are reportedly likely to receive TVK nominations from their respective constituencies, though the party has not officially confirmed its candidates.
The bypolls have gained significance as the TVK government seeks to establish that its electoral support remains strong after coming to power. Winning both constituencies could provide a boost to the government, particularly as differences have emerged with some of its alliance partners.
The Communist Party of India has held demonstrations over rising prices, while the CPI(M) has expressed differences with the government on certain matters. The Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) has also been seeking a greater role for its concerns in government policy.
Meanwhile, the Congress has indicated that it may reconsider its participation in the Ministry unless Rahul Gandhi is accepted as the alliance’s Prime Ministerial candidate.
The DMK, AIADMK and BJP are preparing their respective strategies to challenge the TVK in the two constituencies. For the AIADMK, the elections are particularly significant because its former legislators’ defections resulted in the vacancies.
Although Assembly vacancies are normally expected to be filled within six months, legal proceedings have prevented elections from being held in the other five constituencies.
The results of the October 6 bypolls are therefore expected to serve as an early indication of public sentiment towards the TVK government.