Thalapathy Vijay’s party leads early trends in Tamil Nadu vote count

Vote counting across five Indian states began on Monday (May 4) under tight security arrangements, with early trends from Tamil Nadu indicating a surprise lead for actor-turned-politician Thalapathy Vijay’s party.

According to figures available until around 11:30am (local time), Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) is leading in 104 assembly seats, marking a significant shift in the state’s political landscape.

The ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) is ahead in 50 constituencies, while the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK)-led alliance is in second position with leads in 77 seats.

Analysts say the early performance of TVK signals a notable political disruption in Tamil Nadu, with Vijay’s popularity in the film industry appearing to translate into electoral support.

The Election Commission has implemented strict security measures for the counting process, including restrictions within 100 metres of counting centres. The entire exercise is being monitored through CCTV cameras and videography.

A three-tier security arrangement involving central paramilitary forces and state police has been deployed. Only officials and authorised personnel with QR-coded identification are permitted inside counting centres, while mobile phone use is strictly prohibited except for designated staff.

Meanwhile, vote counting in other states continues alongside heightened political attention. In West Bengal, authorities have ordered repolling in all 285 booths of Falta constituency on May 21 following reports of irregularities during polling on April 29.

The Election Commission had noted in its report that a free and peaceful voting environment could not be ensured in the constituency, prompting the decision for fresh polling.

Political parties, including the BJP, have intensified monitoring of counting centres, while opposition leaders have also raised demands for scrutiny in closely contested seats.