The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), founded on 17 September 1949, by C. N. Annadurai, is a significant political force in Tamil Nadu, India. Originating from the Dravidar Kazhagam led by E. V. Ramasami (Periyar), the DMK made history under Annadurai by becoming the first party, other than the Indian National Congress, to secure a clear majority in state-level elections on its own in 1967.
After Annadurai's demise in 1969, M. Karunanidhi (Kalaignar) assumed the party's presidency and went on to serve as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu for five non-consecutive terms. Both Annadurai and Karunanidhi have been instrumental in shaping the state's political landscape.
The DMK is rooted in Dravidianism, Tamil nationalism, regionalism, social democracy, secularism, and social justice, positioning itself from the center-left to the left-wing spectrum. Its symbol, The Rising Sun, represents its political ideology.
In terms of electoral performance, the DMK has consistently participated in Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, and Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly elections. Presently, the party holds 23 Lok Sabha seats, 10 Rajya Sabha seats, 132 seats in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly, and 6 seats in the Puducherry Legislative Assembly.
Currently, the DMK is the ruling party in Tamil Nadu, having emerged victorious in the 2021 state election. It stands as one of the dominant political entities in Tamil Nadu, alongside the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK).
On this India Today special report, anchor Akshita Nandagopal discusses the escalating war of words between the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) and the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) in Tamil Nadu. The report highlights a significant claim made by TVK leader Nirmal Kumar, who stated, 'Chennai has transformed from a DMK stronghold into a TVK bastion over the past three years.' The TVK leadership suggests that the DMK's long-standing dominance in the state capital is fading due to a growing support base among the urban youth and suburban voters for TVK chief Vijay. The discussion further explores the possibility of Chief Minister M.K. Stalin or Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin being forced to seek safer constituencies in future elections. While Chennai has historically been a DMK fortress, the emergence of TVK as a political challenger marks a potential shift in the state's political dynamics ahead of the upcoming polls.
On this Special Report, India Today reporter Anagha Keshav provides exclusive details on the high-level talks between the DMK and the Congress party ahead of the elections in Tamil Nadu. According to the scoop, the DMK has firmly rejected the Congress party's demand for power sharing and cabinet berths, with Anagha Keshav noting that 'Kanimozhi has made it very, very clear that the DMK is not going to be sharing power with them.' The report highlights that despite this refusal, Rahul Gandhi has indicated that the alliance will continue. The DMK's stance is rooted in its philosophy of maintaining a single-party rule at the state level. While the cordial discussions between Rahul Gandhi and Kanimozhi clarified the DMK's position, the final decision on the exact number of seats for the alliance will be concluded through direct communication between Chief Minister MK Stalin and Rahul Gandhi.
On this news bulletin, the focus is on Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin's recent remarks ahead of the upcoming elections. Addressing the minority community, M.K. Stalin stated that 'Tamil Nadu is the only state which is safe for Muslims.' He further described the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) as a 'fortress that protects the minority' residing in the state. During his address, the Chief Minister also launched a scathing attack on the central government, accusing it of using central agencies like the CBI, ED, and IT to intimidate political opponents and the public. Stalin remarked that he did not need to explain the current situation of the country further, implying a climate of pressure from the Centre. The report highlights the DMK's strategy to consolidate minority votes by positioning itself as a primary defender against central interference and communal insecurity.
On this Special Report, the focus is on the escalating political tension in Tamil Nadu as the DMK-Congress alliance faces internal friction ahead of the upcoming elections. The rift surfaced following demands for power-sharing by Congress leaders, which prompted a sharp retort from a DMK MLA. The MLA asserted that there is 'no India alliance without the DMK' and suggested that seats should not be allocated to Congress leaders Jothimani and Manickam Tagore in the future. The reporter highlights that while the Tamil Nadu Congress Committee leadership maintains that alliance decisions will be finalized by the high command in Delhi, the public fallout reflects deep-seated disagreements over the coalition's structure. The programme explores how these internal disputes over seat-sharing and administrative roles might impact the poll prospects of the 'Indy Alliance' in the state, especially as local DMK cadres express resentment over the Congress's demands.
On this Special Report, India Today's Anagha Kesav provides an update on the shifting political landscape in Tamil Nadu ahead of the assembly polls. The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) is reportedly expanding its alliance from 13 parties in 2021 to 21 parties this year. Kesav highlights the friction within the alliance, stating, 'Congress has demanded for around 40 seats from the DMK, but the DMK is still negotiating with Congress' due to the previous election's performance. DMK leader Kanimozhi has been entrusted to lead the negotiations and is expected to meet Congress leadership in Delhi to finalize the seat-sharing equation. The report also notes discontent among some senior Congress leaders who are considering an alliance with the TVK instead. As the DMK-led alliance takes its final form, the focus remains on whether the two major parties can reach a consensus on the number of seats to be contested.
On this Special Report, the focus is on the escalating political rhetoric in Tamil Nadu as Chief Minister MK Stalin issues a call to action for DMK workers. Stalin has stated that the upcoming 2026 elections represent 'another form of Aryan-Dravidian war' and has instructed party cadres to participate in a statewide 'language war' offensive starting on 25th January. The Chief Minister's directive, issued via a letter to DMK followers, positions the movement as a necessary step to defeat what he describes as an 'anti-Tamil BJP alliance.' Stalin further asserted that victory is assured against political enemies who he claims intend to destroy the Tamil culture. India Today's Pramod Madhav reports on this significant posturing, noting that the DMK is preparing to observe a language war memorial day across the state to consolidate its Dravidian identity and political stance against the opposition ahead of the crucial assembly polls.
On this Special Report, the focus is on the Madras High Court's significant observations regarding Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin's remarks on Sanatana Dharma. The court stated that if the intent was to eradicate those who follow the faith, then 'the appropriate word is genocide'. The bench further observed that the statements fall under the 'hate speech category' and represent a clear attack on Hinduism. While the BJP has welcomed the court's stance, the DMK has defended its leader, with spokesperson A. Saravanan calling the judgment 'erroneous' and arguing that Sanatana Dharma is not synonymous with Hinduism but represents a rigid caste hierarchy. The programme explores the legal and political fallout of these observations in Tamil Nadu.
On this news bulletin, the focus is on the Madras High Court's significant observations regarding Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin's remarks on Sanatana Dharma. Justice Sreemadhi, while quashing an FIR against BJP's Amit Malviya, stated that the call for the 'annihilation' of Sanatana Dharma effectively translates to a call for genocide. AIADMK National Spokesperson Kovai Sathyan joined the broadcast to condemn the DMK, stating, 'It is true that Udai Nidhi challenge statements that were made against Sanatana Dharma and the beliefs of Hindus were divisive.' Sathyan accused the DMK of practicing divisive politics and intimidating the judiciary. The court noted that while those making hate speech often go scot-free, those reacting to it face legal action. The discussion highlights the increasing political polarization in Tamil Nadu ahead of upcoming elections, with the opposition accusing the ruling DMK of using dynastic politics and religious targeting to maintain power.
This report provides an inside scoop on the crucial Congress meeting regarding the upcoming Tamil Nadu elections. Sources indicate that the Tamil Nadu Congress Committee (TNCC) remains firmly in favour of continuing its alliance with the DMK. The state party unit has reportedly expressed dissatisfaction with the conduct of local leader Praveen Chakravarty. Furthermore, the committee is not supporting Lok Sabha MP Manickam Tagore’s demand for a power-sharing arrangement with the DMK. The speaker notes, 'Tamil Nadu Congress committee remains in favor of being in alliance with the DMK,' highlighting a preference for stability over the internal calls for cabinet berths. This development comes amidst intense speculation regarding the survival of the alliance and the influence of local leadership on the party's electoral strategy in the state.
On this news segment, the focus is on the political face-off in Tamil Nadu following an exclusive interview with AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS). DMK leader TKS Elangovan reacts to the claims made by EPS regarding the NDA's prospects, stating, 'Continuously they have lost three elections. This is the fourth election. The same result will be there.' Elangovan dismisses the AIADMK's confidence, asserting that there is no question of the party returning to power. He also addresses the ongoing seat-sharing discussions between the DMK and the Congress, noting that while senior Congress leaders may express their ambitions, the alliance remains smooth and a committee has been formed to finalize details. The programme highlights the DMK's stance that the electoral verdict will mirror past results, leading to another defeat for the AIADMK-led front in the upcoming polls.
Senior Congress leader P. Chidambaram has dismissed the electoral prospects of actor-politician Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) in the upcoming 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. Speaking to the media, Chidambaram stated, ‘India Koottani is a strong Koottani... I have complete faith that India Koottani will win.’ He clarified that the Congress remains firmly within the DMK-led alliance, putting to rest speculation about a potential tie-up with TVK. Chidambaram emphasized that seat-sharing decisions would be finalized by the Congress and DMK leadership.
TVK chief and actor Vijay held a major outreach event for the Christian community in Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu, signalling a significant political move ahead of the 2026 elections. This event, named 'Samathuva Christianity', is viewed as a direct attempt to attract minority voters who have traditionally supported the DMK-led alliance. The growing concern for the ruling DMK is the potential shift of this crucial vote bank to Vijay's newly formed party. The report references a past speech where Vijay allegedly called the DMK an 'evil force' and his TVK a 'pure force'. This strategic outreach highlights the emerging political challenge posed by Vijay, as parties in Tamil Nadu intensify their efforts to secure the support of minority communities.
On this Special Report, the focus is on the escalating confrontation in Tamil Nadu over the lighting of a lamp at the Tiruparankundram temple in Madurai. The controversy erupted after the Madras High Court allowed a lamp to be lit at the 'Deepathun' near a Dargah, a move the DMK government opposed citing law and order concerns. The speaker highlights that the DMK has now 'initiated an impeachment motion against the judge with the signatures of 120 MPs', targeting Justice G.R. Swaminathan for his verdict. The programme details the history of the temple and Dargah's coexistence and the political storm ahead of the elections.
This news report highlights the escalating controversy in Tamil Nadu regarding the Tiruparankundram Deepam issue. The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) is reportedly gathering signatures from Members of Parliament to initiate an impeachment motion against Justice G.R. Swaminathan. The move follows the judge's order to light a Deepam near a Dargah, which the government refused to implement. The report also details protests by the Federation of Lawyers Organization for Democracy and Secularism outside the Madras High Court. Additionally, it references the Chief Minister's dismissal of the issue as polarizing politics.
This special report focusses on the political developments surrounding veteran leader KA Senghotian, who resigned from his MLA post after being expelled from the AIADMK. The report shows Senghotian meeting Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker M. Appavu to submit his resignation after a nearly 50-year career with the party. According to the report, 'KA Senghotian is no longer an MLA from AIATMK. This is expected to have a huge repercussion as if after this, if he joins , whatever Vijay on the ground, the kind of need he had, a leader with experience, that kind of strength he had, now '. The event is presented as a crucial moment with potential implications for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, amidst speculation that Senghotian could join actor Vijay's Tamizhaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK).
This report covers the political friction in Tamil Nadu between the ruling DMK and actor-turned-politician Vijay, President of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). DMK's Deputy General Secretary, K. Ponmudi, has mocked Vijay's recent speech in Kanchipuram, questioning how he would fulfil promises of providing a house and a two-wheeler for every person. According to reporter Pramod Madhav, Ponmudi claimed that Vijay 'is only reading whatever has been given to him and in a kind of way implying that he is not thinking on his own'. The DMK leader's comments dismiss Vijay's statements as mere dialogues delivered by an actor, escalating the war of words between the two parties ahead of state elections.
This report covers the political criticism directed at actor and Tamizhaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay from both the AIADMK and DMK parties in Tamil Nadu. The AIADMK and DMK have attacked Vijay for drawing parallels between his political entry and that of former Chief Minister and AIADMK founder, M.G. Ramachandran. An AIADMK leader stated, 'there is only one MGR, MGRamachandran, and there cannot be any kind of comparison with him'. The bulletin explains that Vijay has been suggesting similarities between the criticism his TVK party faces now and the opposition MGR faced when he started his party in the 1970s. The report also notes that the DMK has joined the AIADMK in this criticism of the TVK chief.
The DMK government in Tamil Nadu is under criticism after party functionary Thiruvakkarai Bhaskaran was booked for rape in Viluppuram district. The victim has alleged sexual assault and blackmail over a six-month period. The case has prompted strong reactions from opposition parties, with AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami stating that 'political power had emboldened individuals like Bhaskaran, allowing them to intimidate women without fear of the law'. Tamil Nadu BJP President K. Annamalai accused the DMK of shielding sexual offenders and claimed the predatory behavior of its cadre is now exposed. The DMK has not yet issued a formal response to the allegations. The victim stated she was threatened with a video that was taken of her.
This special report focuses on a DMK functionary, Thiru Vakarai Bhaskaran, from Villupuram district who has been booked for rape and blackmail. The victim alleges she was sexually assaulted and then blackmailed for six months. Following the registration of an FIR, the AIADMK and BJP have strongly criticised the DMK government. AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami stated that 'political power has emboldened individuals like Bhaskaran, all owing them to intimidate women without fear of the law'. Tamil Nadu BJP President N. Nagendran questioned why the Chief Minister's party is shielding sexual offenders, adding that the predatory behavior of DMK cadres is now exposed. The DMK has not yet issued a response to the allegations or the political attacks.
This special report covers Tamizhaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay's resumption of his political campaign in Kanchipuram, two months after the Karur stampede. The actor-turned-politician attacked the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) government, accusing it of loot, dynasty politics, and questioning its position on the NEET examination. He also claimed the DMK has forgotten the ideology of its founder, Anna Durai. In response to Vijay's speech, the DMK stated, 'The only ideology of TVK is that Vijay should become the... chief minister of Tamil Nadu'. The report highlights the escalating political rhetoric between the two parties in the state, setting the stage for a fierce battle ahead.
