R.Rajaram

R. Rajaram is a 46-year-old software engineer turned politician representing the Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) from Alangudi constituency in Tamil Nadu. As a graduate professional in the IT sector, he represents the party's appeal to educated professionals seeking an alternative to mainstream Dravidian politics. His declared assets of ₹82.84 lakhs with liabilities of ₹26.36 lakhs appear reasonable for someone with his professional background. Rajaram has shown remarkable political growth over his electoral career. Starting with just 1,495 votes (0.95%) in the 2016 Assembly elections, he dramatically improved his performance to 15,477 votes (9.01%) in 2021 - nearly a 10-fold increase that reflects NTK's rising influence in the region. This growth trajectory positions him as a serious contender in the 2026 elections, though he faces the challenge of converting this momentum into an actual victory in a constituency traditionally dominated by DMK and AIADMK. His criminal record shows two cases related to unlawful assembly and causing public obstruction, typical charges faced by political activists involved in protests. While no major controversies specifically target Rajaram, his party NTK has faced legal scrutiny for protest activities, including recent court cases over film protests and sedition charges against party leadership. The party's emphasis on Tamil nationalism, anti-corruption policies, and decentralized governance appeals to voters seeking change, but its confrontational approach and inflammatory rhetoric on sensitive issues like the Tamil Eelam question remain contentious. Voters should know that Rajaram represents a growing regional force that has maintained independence from major alliances, potentially offering fresh perspectives on governance while carrying the risks associated with a party known for its uncompromising positions and protest politics.