Bypoll in Madurantakam was forced: Palaniswami
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi Palaniswami said the by‑poll in Madurantakam was forced, citing political pressure. The election, called after the death of the sitting MLA, filled a vacant assembly seat. Opposition parties criticized the vote as a political stunt to consolidate power before the next state elections. Palaniswami defended the decision, saying it was needed to represent constituents.