Karthik. M

Karthik is a 31-year-old independent candidate from Aruppukottai constituency in Tamil Nadu with a notably varied political career spanning two decades despite his young age. He began his political journey in 2006 by joining the All India Forward Bloc (AIFB) where he was appointed Secretary of the Tamil Nadu state unit and led the party's electoral campaign. In 2009, he launched his own political party, Ahila India Naadalum Makkal Katchi, and contested the Lok Sabha election from Virudhunagar constituency, securing 15,000 votes. He later founded another party in 2018 called Manitha Urimaigal Kaakkum Katchi, expressing support for the AIADMK alliance. Currently associated with Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK), Karthik serves as spokesperson and state organizer of the party's youth wing, participating in television debates and digital forums on issues related to Tamil identity, social justice, and regional politics. In the 2021 Assembly election, he contested as an independent from Aruppukottai but received minimal support with only 665 votes (0.57%), while DMK's K.K.S.S.R. Ramachandran won with 91,040 votes (53.18%). His affidavit declares his education as 5th Pass, profession as Coolie, and total assets of Rs. 30,000 with no immovable property. The significant discrepancy between his declared profession and assets versus his extensive political activities raises questions about transparency. Managing multiple political parties, contesting elections, and holding leadership positions typically requires substantial resources that are not reflected in his financial declaration. He is contesting again as an independent candidate in the 2026 elections scheduled for April 23. Voters should note his history of frequent party switches, minimal electoral success despite two decades in politics, and the inconsistency between his declared financial status and his political career trajectory.