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DMK supports student agitation against poll body chief, hits out at rivals

The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam has backed ongoing student protests against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, while accusing the Congress and Tamil Maanila Congress of inconsistency on electoral governance issues. The party adopted multiple resolutions during discussions on electoral roll management at a key meeting.

LSN India · 17 October 2026

DMK supports student agitation against poll body chief, hits out at rivals

The DMK has thrown its weight behind student-led demonstrations targeting Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, escalating political tensions over electoral administration in the region. The move came during a party meeting convened to address concerns related to the electoral roll management and the Systematic Integrity Review (SIR) process.

At the gathering, the DMK leadership adopted four formal resolutions and three key demands, signaling a hardened stance on electoral governance matters. The party framed its position as a principled stand on poll-related issues, contrasting its approach with what it characterized as wavering positions held by rival political formations.

The DMK's accusations of "double standards" targeting the Congress and Tamil Maanila Congress suggest deepening fissures within the broader opposition alliance on electoral matters. The allegation implies these parties have been inconsistent in their public positions or advocacy related to election commission decisions and procedures.

The party's backing of student protests represents a broader political mobilization around election administration issues, though details of specific student grievances and demands remained unclear. The DMK's formal resolutions and adopted demands are expected to shape the party's future engagement on electoral governance questions in coming months.