Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Assam, West Bengal, and Puducherry elections have witnessed a massive voter turnout like never before. In Tamil Nadu, 2011 witnessed nearly 79 per cent voter turnout indicating an anti-incumbency factor. However, whenever there has been a larger voter turnout, AIADMK managed to win. And this is a cause of concern for the ruling DMK. Adding more to this confusion is exit poll results, which again gave a mixed verdict as some claimed majority to DMK+ alliance and some claimed majority to AIADMK+ alliance.

A notable factor in this election is that specific districts have witnessed a major voter turnout. Karur for example, witnessed 92.6 per cent while Chennai for the first time witnessed 83.71 per cent votes. Similarly, Tirunelveli, Kanyakumari and other districts too witnessed a massive turnout.

This can be directly attributed to special intensive revision exercise taken forward by the election commission, which created ruckus across the nation. Yet, some claim the entry of Vijay as a decisive factor. Yet, one thing is clear, these few districts that witnessed a major voter turnout means that these few districts and their constituencies will decide the winning alliance.

On that note, here are some constituencies to watch out

Karur

In September 2025, Vijay held a rally in Velusamayapuram (part of the Karur assembly constituency). A series of events post that shaped the change in narrative wherein youth of the state began showing more interest in Vijay as the next big leader.

Read our previous blog on the incident

The major shift in voter turnout might mean that Vijay’s TVK winning or gaining a major vote share in this as well as the nearby constituencies. Also, the most notable fact is that Senthil Balaji, the DMK strongman from Karur is contesting from Coimbatore. Does this mean a major loss to DMK? Irrespective of the outcome, this election has already intrigued a lot inviting more speculations.

Tirunelveli

It is widely believed that Christian Nadars are the ones who always seal their allegiance with DMK. However, this time a political pundit claims that christian nadars are feeling deceived as the incumbent government has not recognised their presence. While the overall population of this community in Tirunelveli accounts for 10-12 per cent, it is also notable that the district has a 20 per cent muslim population too. And they have a stronger allegiance towards the incumbent party.

Also notable is the allegiance of thevar community and other hindus (even though scattered) who traditionally have voted for AIADMK+. A higher voter turnout might mean a sizable number of hindus have voted and they traditionally go with AIADMK and BJP combine.

Sattur, Rajapalayam, Tirunelveli, Palayamkottai etc. will be some constituencies to closely watch here. The ripple of effects of Tirunelveli might also be felt in Kanyakumari and Thoothukudi (Tuticorin) districts as they a similar or larger concentration of christian vote bank.

If Vijay’s TVK is taking a major portion of DMK’s vote bank, then AIADMK + BJP combine might sweep all of the 6 seats in Kanyakumari as this means DMK losing on its key bastion in these elections.

Chennai

Being the capital of the state, Chennai is undoubtedly the most happening district when it comes to elections. It has been a DMK bastion since inception. Even during the golden days of MGR, AIADMK couldn’t make inroads into Chennai. However, in 2006 for the first time, AIADMK breached and won 50 per cent of the constituencies here despite losing the elections.

2011 was an even more bigger surprise as barring Kolathur and Chepauk-Triplicane, AIADMK won 20 out of 22 seats by then, which changed the equations. Now, it is believed that Vijay’s political entry is majorly felt in Chennai and a major population might have voted for him and TVK. This might lead to a similar result like 2011 or 2006 as the capital city is more open to new entrants. If a considerable chunk went towards Vijay, then AIADMK+ victory is sealed.

The likes of Mylapore, Harbour, Perambur, Royapuram, Tambaram etc. are to be watched closely.

In conclusion

A major voter turnout indicates a wave election. However, this time no one is sure what this wave indicates. Does it mean, special intensive revision has worked successfully or does it mean Vijay as a factor has amassed votes like never before or does it even mean DMK regaining more control? All these factors matter.