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As counting for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections progresses, all eyes are on Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay. Contesting from two seats—Perambur in North Chennai and Trichy East in the Delta region—Vijay has employed a classic political strategy to ensure his entry into the Legislative Assembly.
However, a double victory would present a legal and strategic puzzle. Here is how the law works and what the actor-turned-politician might decide.
The Legal Rule: Section 70
Under Section 70 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, an individual is prohibited from holding two seats in a state legislature simultaneously. If a candidate is successful in both constituencies, they must resign from one.
The 14-Day Deadline
Vijay will have exactly 14 days from the date of the election result declaration to officially notify the Election Commission and the Assembly Speaker of his choice.
- The Penalty: If a candidate fails to choose within this two-week window, both seats can be declared vacant, necessitating fresh elections for both.
Perambur vs. Trichy East: Which One Stays?
While the official decision would depend on the final victory margins, political analysts weigh the two options as follows:
- Perambur (Chennai): Representing an urban seat in the state capital offers immense symbolic power and proximity to the secretariat. Keeping this seat would solidify his identity as a leader central to Tamil Nadu’s power hub.
- Trichy East (Central TN): This seat was chosen to prove Vijay’s “pan-Tamil Nadu” appeal beyond Chennai. Keeping Trichy East would send a strong message to the rural and semi-urban heartland, particularly in a DMK stronghold.
Current Trend Note: Early counting reports suggest Vijay is maintaining a strong lead in Perambur but facing a tighter contest in Trichy East. If he only secures one, the dilemma is solved automatically.
What Happens Next?
Once Vijay vacates a seat, the Election Commission is mandated to conduct a by-election for that constituency within six months. Typically, party leaders vacate the seat where they believe their party’s second-in-command or a local strongman can easily win a follow-up contest to maintain the party’s strength in the house.