PMK neutral on bypolls, deals blow to AIADMK

The PMK will not support any party in the October 6 bypolls for Madurantakam and Dharapuram Assembly seats, party president Anbumani Ramadoss announced on September 18. The decision comes after consultations with state executives and district functionaries, he said in a statement. The PMK had been an ally of the AIADMK, which won Madurantakam in both the 2021 and 2026 elections.

The New Indian Express reports the move is a setback for the AIADMK, especially in Madurantakam where the PMK has a strong Vanniyar voter base. The Deccan Herald says the PMK's neutrality gives an edge to the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). The Hindu notes that PMK and TVK have shown closeness recently, with meetings between leaders on water projects and social events. The AIADMK had hoped for PMK support after its candidate Maragatham Kumaravel resigned from the seat and joined the TVK.

Political observers quoted by the New Indian Express say the PMK's stand leaves local functionaries free to take their own positions, and the TVK may attract some PMK voters. The DMK, however, may find it hard to win PMK voters due to differences over the 10.5% reservation demand and caste-based census.