Major Political Figures Vie For Crucial Nilgiris Constituency Seat In Tamil Nadu

The Nilgiris (ST) constituency is drawing attention as key political figures compete for the seat. DMK's A. Raja, BJP's Union Minister L. Murugan, and AIADMK's former Speaker Dhanapal's son Lokesh Thamilavelan are in the race, with Naam Tamilar Katchi's Jayakumar also contesting. This election is particularly challenging for the DMK alliance, which faces stiff competition in six out of 40 constituencies across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, including Nilgiris, South Chennai, Vellore, Namakkal, Erode, and Tirunelveli. The Nilgiris is especially crucial for DMK as A. Raja seeks victory there.

One significant development in the Nilgiris constituency is the noticeable growth of BJP's influence. L. Murugan has been actively engaging with the local community for over two years, marking a significant shift in political dynamics. Despite AIADMK holding four assembly seats and DMK two, the conversation has shifted towards a DMK vs BJP narrative, sidelining AIADMK. This shift is seen as a considerable win for BJP, raising questions about whether Murugan can outperform A. Raja.

Historically, Congress has dominated the Nilgiris Lok Sabha constituency with eight wins, followed by DMK with three victories, and both AIADMK and BJP with two each. However, there's speculation that Congress might not be campaigning as vigorously this time, possibly due to overconfidence.

Campaign efforts are in full swing across all parties. The BJP is promoting the achievements of Modi's government, while DMK criticizes it. AIADMK is leveraging posters of Edappadi and Velumani to appeal to voters, highlighting Velumani's strong connection with the hill communities.

The Nilgiris constituency spans a diverse landscape, including parts of Coimbatore, Tiruppur, and Erode districts. While 60% of voters are from plain areas, it seems the concerns of hill area residents like those in Ooty and Coonoor might be overlooked. Yet, it is in these hilly regions that BJP appears to be making significant inroads.