Tamil Nadu has a rich political landscape with several major parties competing for power. The state’s politics is mainly dominated by Dravidian parties, but national parties and regional movements also play important roles.
In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, DMK led with 26.93% vote share, followed by AIADMK at 20.46%. Understanding these political forces helps us know how Tamil Nadu’s democracy works. This guide covers the top political parties in Tamil Nadu that shape the state’s political future in 2025.
List of Top Political Parties in Tamil Nadu 2026
- Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK)
- All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK)
- Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)
- Indian National Congress (INC)
- Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK)
- Communist Party of India (Marxist) – CPI(M)
- Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK)
- Communist Party of India (CPI)
- Tamizhaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK)
- Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK)
1. Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK)
DMK is the ruling party of Tamil Nadu and widely regarded as the best political party in Tamil Nadu by its supporters. The party won 22 out of 39 Lok Sabha seats in 2024 and secured 26.93% vote share.
Known for its Dravidian ideology, the party focuses on Tamil culture, social justice, and state autonomy. Under M.K. Stalin‘s leadership, DMK has modernized its approach while maintaining its core values.
The party has strong support among minorities, backward classes, and urban voters. DMK’s welfare schemes and development programs have helped it stay popular among the masses.
Started in: 1949
Top Leaders: M.K. Stalin (Chief Minister), Udhayanidhi Stalin, T.R. Baalu
Vote Percentage: 26.93% (2024 Lok Sabha)
2. All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK)
AIADMK is the main opposition party in Tamil Nadu with a rich political history. Founded in 1972 by M.G. Ramachandran after breaking away from DMK, the party was later led by J. Jayalalithaa.
In 2024, AIADMK secured 20.46% vote share despite not winning any Lok Sabha seats. The party is known for its populist welfare schemes and strong organizational structure.
Under Edappadi K. Palaniswami’s leadership, AIADMK is working to rebuild its strength. The party recently announced an alliance with BJP for the 2026 assembly elections.
Started in: 1972
Top Leaders: Edappadi K. Palaniswami, O. Panneerselvam, D. Jayakumar
Vote Percentage: 20.46% (2024 Lok Sabha)
3. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)
BJP is India’s ruling national party trying to expand its base in Tamil Nadu. The party won 11.24% vote share in 2024 Lok Sabha elections, showing steady growth in the state. BJP focuses on national development, Hindu nationalism, and good governance.
The party has been working to adapt its message to Tamil Nadu’s unique political culture. Recent defections from other parties and the alliance with AIADMK show BJP’s growing influence. The party particularly appeals to urban middle-class voters and certain caste groups seeking alternative political representation.
Started in: 1980 (as BJP)
Top Leaders: K. Annamalai (State President), L. Murugan, Tamilisai Soundararajan
Vote Percentage: 11.24% (2024 Lok Sabha)
4. Indian National Congress (INC)
Congress is one of India’s oldest political parties and DMK’s key ally in Tamil Nadu. The party secured 10.67% vote share in 2024 and remains an important partner in the ruling alliance.
Known for its secular ideology and social justice policies, Congress has deep historical roots in Tamil Nadu. The party focuses on inclusive development, minority rights, and democratic values.
Though its independent strength has declined, Congress plays a crucial role in coalition politics. The party continues to have loyal supporters, especially among certain communities and regions.
Started in: 1885
Top Leaders: K.S. Alagiri (State President), Su. Thirunavukkarasar, Jothimani
Vote Percentage: 10.67% (2024 Lok Sabha)
5. Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK)
NTK is a relatively new party that has gained significant attention with its Tamil nationalist ideology. The party achieved 8.21% vote share in 2024, making it the fifth-largest party by vote share.
Founded by coordinator Seeman, NTK promotes Tamil pride, anti-corruption measures, and state independence concepts. The party appeals strongly to young voters and Tamil language enthusiasts.
NTK’s social media presence and unique political positions have helped it build a dedicated following. Despite not winning seats, the party’s growing vote share shows its potential to influence Tamil Nadu politics significantly.
Started in: 2010
Top Leaders: Seeman (Coordinator), Sathya, Tamizh Arasan
Vote Percentage: 8.21% (2024 Lok Sabha)
6. Communist Party of India (Marxist) – CPI(M)
CPI(M) is a left-wing party with a long history in Tamil Nadu politics. The party won 2.52% vote share in 2024 and remains part of the DMK-led alliance. Known for its working-class ideology, the party focuses on labor rights, social equality, and anti-capitalist policies.
CPI(M) has strong support in certain districts and among organized workers. The party plays an important role in policy discussions within the ruling alliance. Though its electoral strength has declined, CPI(M) continues to influence political discourse on economic and social issues through its committed cadre base.
Started in: 1964
Top Leaders: K. Balakrishnan, G. Ramakrishnan, A. Soundararajan
Vote Percentage: 2.52% (2024 Lok Sabha)
7. Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK)
DMDK was founded by popular actor Vijayakanth and represents a significant force in Tamil Nadu politics. The party secured 2.59% vote share in 2024 as part of various alliances. Known for combining entertainment industry appeal with political activism, DMDK focuses on anti-corruption and good governance issues.
After Vijayakanth’s passing, the party faces leadership challenges but maintains its organizational structure. DMDK’s ability to influence election outcomes through strategic alliances makes it an important player. The party continues to have loyal supporters who appreciate its founder’s contribution to Tamil cinema and politics.
Started in: 2005
Top Leaders: Premalatha Vijayakanth, L.K. Sudhish, Panruti S. Ramachandran
Vote Percentage: 2.59% (2024 Lok Sabha)
8. Communist Party of India (CPI)
CPI is another important left-wing party in Tamil Nadu’s political landscape. The party achieved 2.15% vote share in 2024 and works closely with other left parties. Known for its commitment to workers’ rights and social justice, CPI has deep roots in Tamil Nadu’s labor movement.
The party focuses on protecting the interests of farmers, workers, and marginalized communities. CPI’s disciplined organization and ideological clarity help it maintain relevance despite limited electoral success. The party continues to play a role in policy-making through its alliance with the ruling DMK coalition.
Started in: 1925
Top Leaders: R. Mutharasan, D. Pandian, K. Subbarayan
Vote Percentage: 2.15% (2024 Lok Sabha)
9. Tamizhaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK)
Tamizhaga Vetri Kazhagam is Tamil Nadu’s newest major political party, launched by popular actor Vijay in February 2024. The party represents a fresh alternative in Tamil Nadu politics, combining cinema popularity with political aspirations.
Known for its youth appeal and modern communication methods, TVK focuses on secular Tamil nationalism and social justice. Vijay has positioned the party against both corruption and communalism, citing leaders like EV Ramasamy, Dr. BR Ambedkar, and K. Kamaraj as ideological pillars.
Though Tamizhaga Vetri Kazhagam didn’t contest 2024 elections, its growing membership and fan base conversion show significant potential for future electoral success.
Started in: 2024
Top Leaders: Vijay (President), N. Anand, Bussy Anand
Vote Percentage: Not contested (2024 Lok Sabha)
10. Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK)
PMK represents the Vanniyar community and focuses on backward class welfare. The party has been an important player in Tamil Nadu politics, often serving as a kingmaker in close elections.
Known for its caste-based politics and community welfare programs, PMK has strong support in northern Tamil Nadu districts.
Under S. Ramadoss’s leadership, the party has maintained its relevance through strategic alliances. PMK’s ability to mobilize its core vote bank makes it valuable to larger alliances. The party continues to advocate for reservation benefits and educational opportunities for backward classes.
Started in: 1989
Top Leaders: S. Ramadoss, Anbumani Ramadoss, G.K. Mani
Vote Percentage: Around 2-3% (Historical average)
Conclusion
Tamil Nadu’s political landscape remains dynamic and competitive. With DMK leading at 26.93% and AIADMK at 20.46% in 2024, the state continues its bipolar political tradition while smaller parties play crucial roles in coalition building and policy influence.