Tamil Nadu Assembly election 2026: Kamal Haasan’s Makkal Needhi Maiam decides not to contest in polls
The Hindu
Kamal Haasan announces support for DMK in 2026 elections, emphasizing the need for 'Dravidian Model 2.0' for Tamil Nadu's welfare.
Makkal Needhi Maiam founder and Rajya Sabha M.P., Kamal Haasan, on Tuesday said that the party wouldn’t be contesting the upcoming 2026 assembly elections but has decided to extend its full support to the secular progressive alliance led by the DMK in Tamil Nadu. Mr. Haasan said that the decision to extend the party’s support without contesting in the elections was not a “sacrifice” but a “duty”.
Making the announcement in a statement, he said that MNM, which was involved in a seat negotiations with DMK, was asked to contest in DMK’s “Udhayasooriyan” symbol, instead of Makkal Needhi Maiam’s “Battery Torch” symbol.
“The negotiations with the DMK happened in two phases. Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister and the DMK’s committee treated us with love and respect. The number of seats that was allotted to the party and the recommendation that we must contest in the “Rising Sun” symbol was not acceptable to myself and members of MNM,” he said.
Stating that he fully understand the DMK’s reasons for making such a recommendation, the alliance’s overall victory is paramount at a time when religious forces are trying to capture Tamil Nadu.
“The MNM’s Battery Torch symbol is an emotion to the Maiam supporters. It is not just a symbol, but our identity. I cannot disregard the feelings of those who have been with me for 9 years. When Tamil Nadu’s rights are being snatched away and Tamil people’s welfare is neglected, it is not right, as a brother, to seek my share. It is not a sacrifice but my duty. It is not self-interest, but patience,” he said.
Mr. Haasan said that “formation of Dravida Model 2.0 is a necessity today”.
Opposition parties criticize Delhi's budget as inflated and misleading, questioning transparency and funding for key initiatives.
Srirangam residents seek improved infrastructure and amenities to support rapid urbanization and growing tourism demands in the constituency.
Alandur faces unresolved civic infrastructure issues, including lack of water and drainage, despite recent development efforts ahead of TN Election 2026.
Delhi's fiscal deficit surged by 62% in 2025-26, reflecting revenue declines and raising concerns about the city's economic health.
Kerala Assembly Elections 2026: Anvar and Firos face multiple namesake rivals in their constituencies amid a crowded candidate field.
Kamal Haasan announces support for DMK in 2026 elections, emphasizing the need for 'Dravidian Model 2.0' for Tamil Nadu's welfare.
DMK finalises seat-sharing for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, contesting 175 seats with allies DMDK and VCK.
Parliament may adjourn early for Assembly elections, allowing MPs to campaign in key election-bound states.
Indian vessels can freely sail through the Strait of Hormuz without needing permission, confirms a senior government official.
The Hindu Morning Digest gives a select list of stories to start the day. Read the top news today on March 25, 2026
An IndiGo flight at Vijayawada airport was grounded due to a tyre burst, but all 79 occupants are safe.
Tamil Nadu Assembly election 2026: TMC(M) gets five seats in NDA, to contest on BJP's 'Lotus' symbol
TMC(M) secures five NDA seats, to contest Assembly elections using BJP's 'Lotus' symbol in Tamil Nadu.
The Karnataka government will discuss with officials the possibility of creating a portal for unemployed youth to share their details and access job opportunities in micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), Minister for Small Industries and Public Enterprises Sharanabasappa Darshanapur said in the Legislative Council on Tuesday.