Manimaran. R

Manimaran R, 37, is contesting as an Independent candidate from Karaikudi constituency in Tamil Nadu. According to his affidavit, he is an 8th pass with declared profession as a driver, holding assets worth Rs. 1.71 lakhs against liabilities of Rs. 3.66 lakhs. However, his candidacy is overshadowed by serious legal issues that raise significant questions about his background declaration. According to The Hindu, Manimaran was arrested by Tallakulam police and charged under multiple IPC sections including 341, 384, 387, 294(b), 506(1), and 392 read with 511. These charges relate to allegations involving a newspaper called 'Dina Bhoomi' that allegedly published false and misleading news about granite quarry businesses in the region and demanded substantial sums (Rs. 5 lakh reportedly paid) for not publishing damaging news. Posters were allegedly pasted causing panic among quarry operators and the public. There is no documented electoral history, political track record, development work, or public service record available for Manimaran in any credible sources. No previous election participation, party affiliation history, or community engagement activities could be verified. The Karaikudi constituency, where he is contesting, is currently represented by S. Mangudi (INC) and faces intense competition from established parties including AMMK, NTK, and TVK. Voters should note the significant discrepancy between the affidavit declaration of zero criminal cases and the documented arrest on serious charges. The lack of any positive political record, combined with undisclosed criminal proceedings and unclear professional background, raises substantial concerns about this candidacy. As an independent candidate with no established political base in a highly competitive constituency, Manimaran faces an uphill battle even without the legal controversies.