CHENNAI: The headquarters of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) in Chennai were a deserted look on Monday as early counting trends showed chief minister MK Stalin trailing in Kolathur and several ministers falling behind in key constituencies including Chennai.By late morning, DMK was leading only in 43 seats, well behind the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) with 106 and the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) with 64, according to initial trends posted by the ECI.Police presence outside the party office was scaled down as the day progressed, and cadres began dismantling temporary shelters erected ahead of the results. The thinning crowd and muted activity reflected a sharp shift from the usual election-day bustle.Among party workers, explanations varied. Some attributed the setback to the surge of support for actor Vijay, whose political debut appeared to have galvanized voters. Others pointed to what they described as weak mobilization at the grassroots level.With few leaders visible, the atmosphere remained subdued as the scale of the party’s losses came into view.
