D.Velazhagan

D. Velazhagan, 56, is a seasoned AIADMK politician from Anaikattu constituency with a 10th pass education who built his career in both business and politics. As a 50% partner in AVS Blue Metal & Srinivasa Blue Metals, he represents the entrepreneurial wing of Tamil Nadu politics, though his business interests have contributed to significant asset growth from Rs. 4.44 crore in 2021 to Rs. 8.30 crore currently. His political journey has been marked by both victories and defeats, including a loss to DMK's A.P. Nandakumar by 6,360 votes in the 2021 assembly elections and an earlier defeat to PMK's M. Kalai Arasu in 2011. Velazhagan's political career carries the burden of criminal charges, including serious allegations of bribery and assault on public servants, which reflect poorly on his governance credentials. Despite these legal challenges, he continues to be a key AIADMK figure in the Anaikattu constituency, though the party itself faces an uphill battle after three consecutive electoral defeats since 2019. The constituency has seen significant development work under the current DMK MLA, including healthcare infrastructure worth Rs. 80 crore and agricultural projects worth over Rs. 65 crore. As AIADMK prepares for the crucial 2026 elections under Edappadi K. Palaniswami's leadership, Velazhagan represents both the party's business-friendly credentials and its ongoing struggles with legal controversies. Voters in Anaikattu must weigh his business experience and party loyalty against his criminal charges and the constituency's recent development under DMK leadership. His ability to reclaim the seat will depend largely on AIADMK's overall revival and his capacity to address local development needs while managing his legal challenges.