Chennai’s Kolathur constituency, long seen as a stronghold for M.K. Stalin, has delivered an unexpected result with his defeat in the latest contest. The loss to TVK candidate V.S. Babu has reportedly stunned not only DMK cadres but also alliance partners.
Stalin had earlier won the seat twice and secured a third victory in 2021 while contesting as the chief ministerial candidate. As the chief minister’s constituency, Kolathur saw multiple development initiatives, including upgrades to schools and hospitals, new community facilities, a library and parks, and restoration works for lakes.
Despite regular visits—said to be about twice a month—to meet residents, the fourth-time contest ended in defeat. DMK sources say the setback has also caused deep distress within Stalin’s family.
According to party circles, Durga has now begun an informal fact-finding exercise by speaking with more than 20 women connected through local women’s wing functionaries and social welfare groups. In these conversations, she reportedly asked what happened in the constituency and why Stalin lost.
The women allegedly pointed to repeated petitions being sent to the family residence but not being read, and claimed that outsiders were brought to party events to create an impression of support while genuine volunteers were sidelined. They also cited the absence of systematic door-to-door election work, unlike in Udhayanidhi’s constituency, as a key factor. DMK circles indicated that the inquiry could lead to action against several local functionaries.
