MAJOR POLITICAL PARTIES IN TAMIL NADU

1.DMK- Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam

The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) is a major political party in Tamil Nadu, founded in 1949 by C. N. Annadurai. It emerged from the Dravidian movement, which focused on social justice, equality, and Tamil pride. The party fought against caste discrimination and supported rationalist ideas. After Annadurai, the party grew strongly under the long leadership of M. Karunanidhi. DMK has played a key role in shaping Tamil Nadu’s education, language policies, welfare schemes, and social reforms. Known for promoting Tamil culture and state rights, the DMK continues to influence politics through development-focused governance and Dravidian ideology.

2.ADMK- All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam

The All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) is a major political party in Tamil Nadu, founded in 1972 by M. G. Ramachandran (MGR) after he split from the DMK. The party is known for its strong welfare policies and support among the poor. After MGR’s death, leadership passed to J. Jayalalithaa, who became the central figure of the party. Under her rule, AIADMK launched many welfare schemes, including Amma Canteens, free laptops, and women-focused benefits. The party follows Dravidian principles and continues to influence Tamil Nadu politics. Even after Jayalalithaa’s death, AIADMK remains a major political force.

3.TVK- Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam

TVK is a political party in Tamil Nadu founded by actor Vijay on 2 February 2024. The party’s main slogan is “Pirappokkum Ellaa Uyirkkum” meaning all lives are equal. TVK focuses on social justice, equality, anti-corruption, youth empowerment, women’s safety, and welfare for poor and farmers. It presents itself as an alternative to traditional parties like DMK and AIADMK. Vijay says TVK’s ideological enemy is BJP and main political rival is DMK. TVK plans to contest all seats in the 2026 Tamil Nadu elections and aims to bring clean, transparent governance.

4.PMK- Pattali Makkal Katchi

The Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) is a political party in Tamil Nadu founded in 1989 by Dr. S. Ramadoss. The party mainly focuses on the welfare of Vanniyar communities but also works on broader issues like education, rural development, employment, and social justice. PMK has been part of different alliances with both the DMK and AIADMK at various times. The party supports reservation reforms and pushes for better opportunities for backward communities. Its youth wing, led by Anbumani Ramadoss, promotes healthcare, environment protection, and anti-liquor campaigns. PMK continues to influence Tamil Nadu politics through its caste-base and policy demands.

5.NTK- Naam Tamilar Katchi

Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) is a Tamil nationalist political party in Tamil Nadu led by Seeman. The party promotes Tamil identity, language pride, and cultural protection. NTK strongly supports the idea that political power should stay with native Tamils and emphasizes environment protection, farmers’ rights, and education reform. The party often speaks about issues affecting Sri Lankan Tamils and demands justice for war victims. NTK also focuses on anti-corruption, women’s safety, and youth employment. Its election campaigns highlight self-respect, simplicity, and transparency. Although NTK has not won large seats yet, it has a growing youth following across the state.

6.DMDK- Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam

DMDK is a political party in Tamil Nadu founded in 2005 by popular actor Vijayakanth. The party’s name means National Progressive Dravidian Federation. DMDK was formed to offer an alternative to the two main Dravidian parties, DMK and AIADMK. The party focuses on social justice, corruption-free governance, and development. It gained significant support in the 2011 Tamil Nadu assembly elections and became the second-largest party in vote share. DMDK also promotes youth empowerment, rural development, and welfare programs. Though its influence has declined in recent years, it remains a notable regional party in Tamil Nadu politics.

7.VCK-Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi

Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) is a political party in Tamil Nadu that primarily represents Dalit and marginalized communities. It was founded by Thol. Thirumavalavan and focuses on social justice, caste equality, and human rights. The party strongly advocates for Dalit empowerment, reservation policies, and protection against caste-based discrimination. VCK also supports women’s rights, education, and welfare programs. It is active in state elections and often allies with larger parties like DMK to increase influence. The party raises its voice on issues of social reform, equality, and Tamil Nadu development, aiming to give a political platform to oppressed communities.

8.CPI- Communist Party of India

The Communist Party of India (CPI) is one of the oldest political parties in India, founded in 1925. It follows Marxist-Leninist ideology and promotes socialism, workers’ rights, and equality. CPI advocates for land reforms, labor rights, and welfare of farmers and industrial workers. The party opposes exploitation, corruption, and capitalist policies that harm the poor. It has a strong presence in states like Kerala, West Bengal, and Tripura, and is also active in Tamil Nadu. CPI participates in national and state elections, often forming alliances with other left-leaning parties. The party emphasizes secularism, democracy, and social justice.

9.BJP- Bharatiya Janata Party

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is a major national political party in India, founded in 1980. It is rooted in Hindutva ideology and promotes nationalism, economic development, and strong governance. BJP supports policies like Digital India, Make in India, and infrastructure development. The party emphasizes cultural identity, defense, and national security. It has a strong presence across most Indian states and has formed governments at the center multiple times, with leaders like Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Narendra Modi. BJP focuses on development, anti-corruption, and good governance, while also maintaining alliances with regional parties in states like Tamil Nadu.

10.INC- Indian National Congress

The Indian National Congress (INC) is one of India’s oldest political parties, founded in 1885. It played a leading role in the Indian independence movement under leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Sardar Patel. INC follows a center-left ideology, promoting secularism, democracy, and social justice. The party supports welfare programs, economic reforms, education, and healthcare initiatives. INC has governed India for several decades and influenced the country’s development policies. It participates actively in state and national elections, including Tamil Nadu. The party emphasizes inclusive growth, equality, and unity, aiming to represent all sections of Indian society.