Tamil Nadu Lok Sabha Elections: Here Are The Top 5 Wealthiest Candidates

The upcoming Lok Sabha elections in Tamil Nadu are drawing attention not just for the political battle but also for the wealth of the candidates. Among those contesting, there are no DMK candidates in the top 5 richest list. However, two candidates from AIADMK, one from BJP, and two from BJP's alliance parties have made it to this list. The elections will cover all 39 Lok Sabha constituencies in Tamil Nadu in a single phase on the 19th of this month.

A total of 950 candidates are vying for seats, with a significant number, 609, running as independents. Breaking down the numbers further, the AIADMK is fielding 34 candidates, while the DMK alliance has 22. The BJP is presenting 19 candidates, with an additional four from its alliance parties contesting under the BJP's symbol. Seeman's Naam Tamilar party is not far behind with 39 candidates. Other parties like PMK, DMDK, and Tamil Nadu Congress party among others are also participating with varying numbers of candidates. All these candidates have disclosed their assets in their nomination papers.

Arappor, an organization focused on transparency, has developed a mobile app named Arappor. This app provides detailed information about the candidates' assets based on their affidavits. Additionally, Arappor has released a list showcasing the top 5 wealthiest candidates in Tamil Nadu.

Topping this list is Ashok Kumar from AIADMK contesting in Erode with assets worth Rs 661 crore. Following him is Devanathan Yadav from the BJP alliance with Rs 206 crore, and Jayaprakash from AIADMK with Rs 131 crore.

In fourth place is AC Shanmugam of the New Justice Party, part of the BJP alliance, who has declared assets worth Rs 123 crore. These figures are calculated by adding movable and immovable assets and then subtracting any loans. This approach gives a clear picture of each candidate's net worth. The list provides insight into the financial background of those contesting in one of Tamil Nadu's most closely watched electoral battles.