Tamil Nadu election 2026: Double engine of ground outreach and digital strategy marked DMK’s poll campaign - The HinduUpdated - April 22, 2026 03:08 am IST - ChennaiTamil Nadu Chief Minister and Kolathur Assembly constituency candidate M.K. Stalin addressing an election campaign at Peravallur in Chennai on Tuesday. | Photo Credit: JOTHI RAMALINGAM BThe sun was already unforgiving at 9 a.m. in Virudhunagar on April 5. Those who attended the election rally of Chief Minister M. K. Stalin, the star campaigner of the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance, were sweating profusely. Mr. Stalin delivered a tightly structured address, winding up in just about 30 minutes.In a clear departure from the past—when local leaders and candidates would speak before the party leader addressed the gathering—this time, Mr. Stalin spoke alone, following only a brief introduction by the local minister or district secretary. He highlighted the overall achievements of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) government and outlined schemes implemented in the district before introducing the candidates.Published - April 22, 2026 01:00 am ISTSign in to unlock member-only benefits!Access 10 free stories every monthSave stories to read laterAccess to comment on every storySign-up/manage your newsletter subscriptions with a single clickGet notified by email for early access to discounts & offers on our products${ ind + 1 } ${ device }Last active - ${ la }