Chennai,30 March (H.S.):Launching his re-election bid with a confident display of political strength, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin on Monday filed his nomination from the Kolathur Assembly constituency, setting the tone for an intense electoral contest ahead of the April 23 polls.

The filing marks a key milestone as the state officially entered the nomination phase for all 234 constituencies, with authorities putting in place elaborate arrangements and heightened security at returning officers’ offices to ensure a smooth process.

Seeking a fourth consecutive term from Kolathur, Stalin arrived at the election office on Paper Mills Road amid tight security and enthusiastic crowds. He submitted his nomination papers before Returning Officer S. Shanthi in the presence of senior leaders, including Minister Sekhar Babu.

The event quickly transformed into a show of strength for the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), as hundreds of party workers and supporters gathered in large numbers, raising slogans and expressing solidarity with the Chief Minister.

Addressing reporters after completing the formalities, Stalin struck an optimistic note, asserting that the DMK-led alliance would secure a decisive mandate. “The people of Tamil Nadu will once again endorse our governance,” he said, expressing confidence in a sweeping victory.

Following the filing, Stalin held a vibrant roadshow in an open jeep across key parts of Kolathur, drawing enthusiastic responses from residents who lined the streets waving party flags.

Highlighting his government’s development record, he also released a booklet outlining welfare initiatives and infrastructure projects carried out in the constituency, aiming to reinforce voter confidence.

Reiterating his bold electoral projection, Stalin said the alliance is poised to win over 200 seats, underscoring the party’s aggressive push to retain power.

With nominations underway, the political battle in Tamil Nadu is entering a decisive phase, with major parties intensifying their campaigns across the state.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman