Observers puzzled by total washout of AIADMK in Tiruchi

Absence of strong local-level leadership to steer the party and galvanize the workers apparently dented its vote bank

The total washout of the AIADMK in Tiruchi district, which was for long the party’s fortress, has caused disbelief among political observers. Out of nine constituencies, the DMK spared none to the AIADMK, which had held its sway in at least six rural constituencies for decades. The major cause for disappointment among AIADMK workers is the victory of DMK candidates with massive vote margins in some of the constituencies in Tiruchi as well as Karur, Ariyalur and Perambalur districts. While the DMK chose to field its candidates in seven of the nine constituencies in Tiruchi, leaving two to its allies, Chrishthuva Nallenna Iyakkam (CNI) and the Manithaneya Makkal Katchi (MMK), the AIADMK contested in eight seats, leaving one to its ally, the TMC.