## Summary of The Hindu Article: TVK Captures DMK’s Citadel
The Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly election results in the Villupuram Lok Sabha constituency saw a significant upset with the Tamil Vanniyar Kootami (TVK), a relatively new alliance led by Paattali Makkal Katchi (PMK), defeating the incumbent DMK candidate, R. Shanthakumari.
**Villupuram Result:**
* **Winner:** G. Tamilselvan (TVK/PMK)
* **Votes Polled:** 5,66,594
* **Runner-up:** R. Shanthakumari (DMK)
* **Votes Polled:** 4,88,328
* **Winning Margin:** 78,266 votes
**Key Takeaways:**
* This marks the first time the PMK has won the Villupuram seat since 1999.
* The DMK suffered a notable loss in a constituency considered a stronghold, having held the seat in 2019 with a substantial margin.
* The TVK’s victory is attributed to a consolidation of Vanniyar community votes, a dominant force in the constituency.
* The alliance with other parties within the TVK is believed to have broadened their appeal beyond the Vanniyar community.
* AIADMK candidate, A. Murugesan secured 2,29,834 votes, finishing third.
* The NOTA option received 18,814 votes.
* The voter turnout was 68.38%.
**Constituency Details:**
* Villupuram is a Lok Sabha constituency in Tamil Nadu.
* The constituency comprises six legislative assembly segments: Gingee, Mailam, Tindivanam, Vanur, Villupuram, and Kalrayan Hills.
* The election witnessed a direct contest between the DMK-led INDIA bloc and the TVK alliance.
