V. Somasundaram

V. Somasundaram, 61, is a seasoned AIADMK politician from Kancheepuram, Tamil Nadu, with over two decades of political experience. A graduate professional engaged in business, he has declared assets worth Rs. 11.17 crores with no criminal cases. His political career includes significant ministerial responsibility, having served as Handlooms and Textiles Minister from 2001 to 2006 representing the Uthiramerur constituency during AIADMK's government. Somasundaram's most notable electoral success came in 2011 when he won the Kancheepuram Assembly seat with a commanding 53.43% vote share, securing 102,710 votes and defeating his PMK rival by over 25,000 votes. However, his fortunes reversed in 2016 when he lost the same constituency to DMK's C. V. M. P. Ezhilarasan, marking his exit from the Legislative Assembly. This defeat reflected broader anti-incumbency trends that affected AIADMK in several constituencies during that election. Throughout his career, Somasundaram has remained loyal to AIADMK with no reported party switches. His ministerial experience in the textile sector, crucial to Tamil Nadu's economy, demonstrates administrative capability. However, his current public profile appears subdued with limited recent media presence or social media engagement. No controversies, corruption allegations, or legal issues have been reported against him in available sources. Voters should know that Somasundaram brings ministerial experience and party loyalty but faces the challenge of reclaiming a constituency lost to DMK eight years ago. His financial declarations appear consistent with his business background and political career, and he contests with a clean record of zero criminal cases.