Chennai, Apr 30:
The ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) on Wednesday downplayed exit poll predictions and expressed strong confidence of securing a sweeping mandate of over 200 seats in the Assembly election. The party said its optimism is based on favourable polling patterns and its governance record over the past term.
Party organising secretary RS Bharathi stated that the DMK is banking on its “achievements and welfare schemes” to convert into votes. He noted that the party had begun its electoral groundwork a year in advance and carried out micro-level assessments after polling. “The trend clearly points to a massive victory,” he asserted, even as several exit polls indicated a strong performance by Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, led by actor-turned-politician Vijay.
Responding to questions on TVK’s prospects, Bharathi said the new entrant may attract a section of votes but is unlikely to convert that into a major electoral breakthrough. He added that any minor setbacks for the DMK could occur in constituencies contested by alliance partners due to symbol-related factors, but insisted that such issues would not significantly impact the alliance’s overall performance.
He further emphasised that the party’s governance model, including welfare schemes, infrastructure development and social justice initiatives, has resonated strongly with voters across urban and rural constituencies. According to him, the DMK’s consistent engagement with the public and its focus on delivery of promises have created a favourable electoral climate that exit polls may not fully capture.
The DMK leader also urged cadres and supporters to remain vigilant and prepared for counting day, stressing the importance of safeguarding votes and ensuring a smooth process. With results set to be declared on May 4, the party leadership remains confident that the final outcome will reflect what it describes as a “clear and decisive mandate” in its favour.