A.Velusamy

A.Velusamy, 46, is a candidate from the regional Puthiya Tamilagam party contesting from Alandur constituency in Tamil Nadu. With a 5th standard education and working in self-employment, he represents a party that has historically struggled to win seats despite multiple electoral attempts since 1998. His party, founded by K. Krishnasamy in 1997, focuses on social equity and represents the Devendra Kula Vellalar community, particularly in southern Tamil Nadu. Puthiya Tamilagam has a history of shifting alliances, having partnered with DMK, AIADMK, BJP, and other parties across different election cycles. The party's best performance came in 2011 when it won 2 assembly seats as part of an AIADMK alliance, but it currently holds zero legislative seats. For the upcoming elections, the party has announced plans to contest independently in 70 constituencies. Velusamy's candidacy comes at a time when his party is attempting to consolidate its traditional vote bank without major alliance partners. However, extensive searches reveal virtually no information about his personal political activities, public statements, or constituency work in Alandur. This lack of public profile is notable in an era where most political candidates maintain some form of media presence. Voters in Alandur should note that while Velusamy represents a party with specific community focus, both he and Puthiya Tamilagam face significant challenges in a constituency where DMK currently holds the seat and major parties dominate the political landscape.