About the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly
Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly
The Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly, also known as the Tamil Nadu Vidhan Sabha, is the unicameral legislative body of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is located at Fort St. George in Chennai, the state capital.
The Assembly consists of 234 elected seats representing constituencies across the state. The current 17th Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly was constituted in May 2026 following the state Assembly elections.
Government and leadership
C. Joseph Vijay serves as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu and leads the government formed by the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). The government is supported by alliance partners, including the Indian National Congress, Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi and Indian Union Muslim League.
J. C. D. Prabhakar serves as the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, responsible for presiding over House proceedings and maintaining order during debates.
Udhayanidhi Stalin of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) serves as the Leader of the Opposition. The DMK is the principal opposition party in the Assembly.
Legislative responsibilities
The Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly is responsible for debating and passing state laws, approving the annual budget and examining government policies. Its work covers education, healthcare, agriculture, industrial development, employment, infrastructure, transport and public welfare.
Members of the Assembly represent their constituencies and raise issues concerning local development, public services and the needs of citizens.
Political significance
Tamil Nadu has a prominent political history shaped by Dravidian political movements and regional parties. The Legislative Assembly plays a major role in determining the state's policies, development priorities and political direction.
The 2026 election brought a major political change with TVK forming the government under C. Joseph Vijay, while the DMK became the principal opposition party.
Term and next election
The current 17th Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly has a regular five-year term covering 2026–2031. The next regular Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly election is expected in 2031, subject to constitutional and electoral developments.