Amutha.N

Amutha N is a 56-year-old journalist and politician contesting from Chengalpattu constituency on a Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) ticket in the 2026 Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly elections. As a member of the Tamil nationalist party founded by filmmaker Senthamizhan Seeman in 2010, she represents a growing alternative political force in Tamil Nadu that advocates for Tamil identity, language preservation, regional autonomy, and social justice. Her candidacy reflects NTK's commitment to fielding diverse candidates, including women, as part of the party's inclusive approach to Tamil nationalism. In the 2021 Assembly elections, Amutha N contested from Chengalpattu and secured 26,868 votes (9.91% vote share), placing third in the constituency. This performance aligned with NTK's overall trajectory of steady growth—the party's state-wide vote share increased from 1.1% in 2016 to 6.72% in 2021, making it the third-largest party in Tamil Nadu. The party has particularly resonated with younger voters disillusioned with traditional Dravidian parties like DMK and AIADMK. However, NTK faces challenges converting votes into seats, with opinion polls predicting around 4.9% vote share in 2026 but no seat victories. The NTK and its members have been involved in several controversies that may affect public perception. The party led protests against the Telugu film 'Kingdom' in early 2026, with cadres accused of attacking theaters, prompting Madras High Court intervention to protect cinema halls. Separately, an NTK youth wing member was arrested in a fake NCC camp scandal involving sexual harassment allegations, though this incident occurred in Krishnagiri district, not Chengalpattu. Party leader Seeman has also faced allegations of cyberbullying from a Trichy police official. The party's 2026 manifesto focuses on decentralized governance, anti-corruption measures, agricultural reforms, and strict prohibition policies. Voters in Chengalpattu should know that Amutha N represents an ideologically driven alternative to mainstream parties, with NTK's consistent focus on Tamil nationalism and social justice issues. While her party has demonstrated growing electoral support and appeals to those seeking change, its confrontational tactics and limited track record in governance remain points of concern. With declared assets of Rs. 23.63 lakhs (all movable, no immovable property) and no criminal cases, her financial profile appears modest for a journalist-turned-politician. Her ability to convert NTK's ideological appeal into tangible development outcomes remains untested.