G.Balasubramani

G. Balasubramani, 49, is a textile industry professional from Kulithalai, Tamil Nadu, contesting the 2026 Assembly elections on a Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) ticket. With an 8th-grade education and assets worth ₹8.91 crores (including ₹7.98 crores in immovable property and liabilities of ₹1.05 crores), Balasubramani represents a new political force entering Tamil Nadu's traditionally bipolar political landscape dominated by DMK and AIADMK. His candidacy is part of TVK's ambitious plan to contest all 234 seats in the state, riding on the popularity of party founder and film actor Vijay. TVK, founded on February 2, 2024, has rapidly emerged as a significant political player with its first state conference in Vikravandi attracting over 800,000 attendees. The party's manifesto released on April 16, 2026, promises ₹2,500 monthly assistance for homemakers, ₹4,000 unemployment aid for graduates, 200 units of free electricity, AI-driven governance solutions, and comprehensive welfare schemes targeting women, farmers, and fishermen. The party positions itself on a platform of social justice, Tamil nationalism, and anti-corruption governance. However, TVK's journey has been marred by serious tragedy. On September 27, 2025, a crowd crush at a party rally in Karur district killed 41 people and injured around 100 when crowds surged toward Vijay after his convoy arrived seven hours late. Tamil Nadu Police filed FIRs against TVK leaders including General Secretary N. Anand for culpable homicide, endangering lives, and safety violations. The party also faces internal challenges, including a February 2026 incident where a female TVK leader attempted suicide in Madurai alleging a ₹1.6 million fraud by a district secretary. For Kulithalai voters, Balasubramani represents both opportunity and uncertainty. The constituency was won by DMK's R. Manickam in 2021 with 51.37% votes. As a political newcomer backed by Vijay's celebrity appeal and ambitious welfare promises, Balasubramani faces the challenge of proving TVK can translate social media momentum and fan enthusiasm into effective governance and local development. Voters must weigh the party's fresh approach and comprehensive manifesto against its organizational inexperience, recent tragedies, and the steep learning curve of converting star power into administrative capability.