SENTHAMANGALAM(Reserved)

Senthamangalam(ST), a reserved constituency in Tamil Nadu, witnessed significant political change when DMK's K. Ponnusamy defeated AIADMK's S. Chandran in the 2021 Assembly election with 45.51% of votes, flipping the seat from AIADMK. The constituency benefited from several statewide DMK government schemes implemented between 2021-2026, including the Makkalai Thedi Maruthuvam healthcare-at-doorstep program, the Chief Minister's Breakfast Scheme for school students, the Naan Mudhalvan skill development initiative, and the Kalaignar Kanavu Illam housing scheme targeting five lakh rural homes. The TholkudiAithinai Program specifically aimed at improving tribal livelihoods through sustainable agriculture and skill training. Infrastructure improvements came through broader state initiatives like road upgrades under Bharatmala and PM Gati Shakti, water supply projects, and electricity network expansion, though specific constituency-level project details remain sparse in available records. The constituency faced a major disruption when sitting MLA K. Ponnusamy died of a heart attack on October 23, 2025, at age 74, creating political instability and necessitating by-elections. While no direct controversies or criminal cases were reported against Ponnusamy during his tenure, the DMK government faced broader criticism for electricity tariff hikes (up to 45%), property tax increases (up to 150%), and implementation challenges with promised schemes like free bus travel for women. Civic issues common across Tamil Nadu—including water shortages, flooding during monsoons, and garbage management—likely affected Senthamangalam as well, though constituency-specific documentation is limited. The 2026 Assembly election is scheduled for April 23, 2026, with results on May 4. DMK has fielded P. Poomalar, while AIADMK's C. Chandrasekaran, NTK's C. Ponnumani, and TVK's P. Chandrasekar are also contesting. Voters should consider both the statewide welfare schemes implemented during DMK's tenure and the unfulfilled promises regarding tariff hikes and service delivery. The sudden loss of their sitting MLA mid-term means assessing the continuity and local presence of candidates becomes crucial for this tribal constituency's representation.