Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin conceded defeat in the 2026 Assembly elections on Monday, accepting the electoral verdict as the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) prepares to transition into a 'constructive and effective Opposition'. In a social media statement, Stalin congratulated the winners and reaffirmed his commitment to democratic principles, crediting his government's welfare initiatives and development agenda over the past five years.

The Election Commission data as of 8:40 p.m. showed the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), led by actor-turned-politician C. Joseph Vijay, had won 82 seats and was leading in 25, making it the single largest party. The DMK secured 44 seats and led in 16, while the AIADMK won 34 and was ahead in 13. The elections, held on April 23 in a single phase, saw an 85.1% voter turnout, with over 4.8 crore votes cast across 234 constituencies.

Stalin lost the Kolathur Assembly seat to TVK candidate V.S. Babu by 8,795 votes, ending his long-standing hold on the constituency. Despite the setback, the DMK retained presence in Gudalur, Coonoor, and Valparai, while Congress and CPI allies won in Melur and Thally, respectively. Stalin praised party workers, voters, and alliance partners in his message, emphasizing that the DMK's ideological mission would continue.

With no party securing a majority, the focus now shifts to coalition negotiations and the Governor's response. The Election Commission is expected to formalize the results shortly, after which the state will await directions on government formation.