Tamil Nadu election 2026: Palaniswami is coasting along with PMK’s support in Edappadi

In the fight of his life as he tries to lead his party back to power,  AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami is expecting to win a sixth time from his native constituency that has lent itself to his name. Farming is a major occupation of the people of the constituency, which is located 50 km from Salem city. It covers Edappadi taluk, a portion of Mettur taluk, Konganapuram, Nangavalli and Jalakandapuram town panchayats. Weavers live in a sizeable number in these town panchayats.

The DMK won here in 1967 and 1971. Thereafter, the AIADMK has won seven times, out of which Mr. Palaniswami has won five times. He lost twice to the PMK in 1996 and 2006. The PMK won in 2001 as well. The Congress has won twice, on its own in 1952, and as part of the AIADMK-led alliance in 1984.