As the political atmosphere intensifies ahead of the upcoming Tamil Nadu Elections 2026, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar has expressed strong confidence in the ruling alliance’s prospects, stating that the DMK led coalition will secure a decisive victory in the state.
Speaking to the media in Chennai, Shivakumar said he has actively engaged with a large number of people during his campaign efforts and conveyed the messages of the Indian National Congress leadership, including Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge. He emphasized that the alliance’s focus is not limited to a single state but extends to the broader national political landscape.
#WATCH | Tamil Nadu Elections 2026 | Chennai: Karnataka Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar says, "I have met not just the CM but lakhs of people. I campaigned and gave the message from INC, Rahul Gandhi, and Mallikarjun Kharge. The entire country has to be looked upon. So, DMK alliance… pic.twitter.com/WVNmPJQqEl
— ANI (@ANI) April 10, 2026
“The entire country has to be looked upon. So, the DMK alliance will come hands down here. We all will fight. They have done a great job. We will continue to do that job,” Shivakumar said, expressing optimism about the performance of the DMK Congress alliance in the upcoming elections.
His remarks come at a time when political campaigning in Tamil Nadu is gaining momentum, with parties actively mobilizing support across districts. The DMK-led alliance has been highlighting governance achievements and development initiatives, while opposition parties are ramping up their outreach strategies.
Shivakumar also responded sharply to comments made by Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief and actor-turned-politician Vijay. Addressing Vijay’s political statements, he dismissed claims suggesting alternative political narratives outside established parties.
He stated, “Original Congress is Indian National Congress. No one is there with him. He is just fooling the people. You can't fool people like in a film... Those dialogues will not work in politics,” indirectly criticizing what he described as cinematic-style rhetoric being used in political discourse.
His comments reflect growing political friction as new entrants like TVK attempt to carve out space in Tamil Nadu’s competitive political environment. Vijay’s political entry has drawn significant public attention, particularly among youth and fan base driven supporters, making him a notable figure in the evolving political landscape.
The 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections are expected to be a crucial contest involving major parties such as the DMK, AIADMK, BJP alliances, Congress, and emerging regional outfits like TVK. Political analysts suggest that alliances, leadership perception, and grassroots campaigning will play a key role in determining the outcome.
Shivakumar reiterated that the DMK alliance remains united and focused on governance, development, and public welfare. He added that coordination between coalition partners is strong and that they will continue to work together to secure a mandate from the people.
Meanwhile, political observers note that campaign rhetoric is likely to intensify in the coming months as parties begin large scale outreach programs and public rallies across Tamil Nadu.
As the state moves closer to the elections, statements from senior leaders like Shivakumar highlight the strategic importance of alliances and the increasing polarization of political narratives in the region.