Following his win on January 31, 2026, Babu attributed the success to the party’s leadership vision and pledged to serve the public with integrity and without corruption.

Speaking to reporters, Babu said, “The mandate was a result of our leadership and vision. I am just an ordinary party worker. The people’s support played a crucial role in the outcome. I will maintain integrity in public service and not engage in any form of corrupt practices. My focus would remain on transparent governance and addressing the needs of the people.”

According to the Election Commission of India, after 22 rounds of electronic voting machine counting, Babu obtained 82,997 votes while Stalin received 74,202 votes. Babu collected his certificate at the Loyola College counting centre amid celebrations from party supporters.

The loss is significant as Kolathur has been exclusively represented by Stalin since its establishment in 2008 following delimitation. This defeat marks the first time the DMK leader will not represent the constituency in the Assembly, indicating a major political shift in Tamil Nadu.

The newly formed TVK has made a remarkable entry into Tamil Nadu’s political arena, emerging as the potential single largest party. Latest Election Commission data show TVK winning 62 seats and leading in 45, while DMK holds 24 wins with 34 leads, and the AIADMK alliance has 23 wins and 25 leads. The Congress party has secured 2 victories and leads in 3 seats, underscoring a competitive electoral battle.

The results challenge previous assumptions about actors struggling in politics, as TVK leader Vijay joins iconic actor-turned-politicians such as NT Rama Rao, MG Ramachandran, and J Jayalalithaa, reflecting his strong connect with the electorate.

TVK’s success could represent a historic change, potentially ending decades of dominance by the DMK and AIADMK parties in Tamil Nadu since June 1977.