1980 Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly election

The 1980 Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly election was held on June 7, 1980, to elect members to the 10th Legislative Assembly of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. This election was significant as it followed the demise of the Indian National Congress's decades-long dominance in the state, marking a pivotal shift in Tamil Nadu's political landscape. The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), led by M. Karunanidhi, emerged victorious, securing a majority and forming the government. The election was characterized by a multi-party contest, with parties like the Indian National Congress (I), the AIADMK, and various regional and caste-based parties participating. Voter turnout was notably high, reflecting the electorate's engagement in the democratic process during this period of political transformation in Tamil Nadu.