The elevation of Dhanapal, representing Rasipuram (SC) constituency and elected Deputy Speaker after AIADMK stormed to power in May 2011, is certain with the ruling AIADMK boasting a strong majority of 151 MLAs in the 234-member state Assembly.
His election will pave the way for a Dalit being elected as Speaker of the House after nearly 50 years.
Jayalalithaa had nominated Dhanapal for the Speaker's post following Jayakumar's resignation. No opposition party has announced any candidate so far.
The Assembly has been summoned by the Governor K Rosaiah to conduct the election on October 10.
Dhanapal filed his nomination papers with Assembly Secretary P Jamaludeen today.
