Wed Jan 15 20:26:10 UTC 2025: ## AIADMK Boycott Leaves DMK Unchallenged in Upcoming Tamil Nadu By-election

**Erode, Tamil Nadu – January 16, 2025** – The upcoming by-election for the Erode (East) Assembly constituency on February 5th is shaping up to be a landslide victory for the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), thanks to the unexpected boycott by the main opposition party, the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK).

The by-election, necessitated by the death of Congress legislator E.V.K.S. Elangovan, has seen the Congress yield to its alliance partner, the DMK, and field their candidate, V.C. Chandirakumar. This move follows a similar by-election in 2023, where the Congress successfully won with DMK support. The AIADMK’s decision to boycott the election, however, is a significant development, particularly given their strong presence in the Kongu region where Erode is located.

AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami attributed the boycott to concerns about the ruling party’s alleged misuse of power. However, analysts suggest the real reason is the AIADMK’s weakened state, lacking a strong alliance and internal divisions between the factions led by Palaniswami and O. Panneerselvam. The absence of the BJP, a key partner in previous elections, further weakens their position.

Historically, by-elections in Tamil Nadu have been fiercely contested, often serving as barometers of public opinion. The AIADMK’s decision marks a departure from this tradition, highlighting their current struggles. The party’s past successes in by-elections, including the pivotal Dindigul Lok Sabha by-election in 1973, stand in stark contrast to their current predicament. Their performance in recent by-elections, particularly after the death of former Chief Minister Jayalalithaa, indicates a significant decline in their electoral prospects.

The emergence of new players, such as actor Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, adds further complexity to the political landscape. The DMK, therefore, appears poised for an easy victory, with little significant opposition in sight.

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