M.Mayilvaganan

M.Mayilvaganan, 50, is contesting from Kulithalai constituency as an Independent candidate after a successful stint as DMK MLA for two consecutive terms. He won the seat in 2016 with 89,923 votes (48.85% vote share) and again in 2021 with an improved performance of 100,829 votes (51.37% vote share), defeating AIADMK both times. His 2021 victory margin of 23,540 votes nearly doubled from his 2016 margin of 11,896 votes, indicating growing support. However, he lost his first electoral attempt in 2011 as DMK candidate, securing only 40.70% votes. His current Independent candidacy represents a significant shift, as DMK has officially fielded S.A. Chandiran for Kulithalai in the 2026 elections, effectively replacing Mayilvaganan. This suggests either internal party dynamics led to his exclusion or voluntary exit. He declares his profession as 'Farming' with total assets of Rs. 83.24 lakhs (movable: Rs. 39.74 lakhs, immovable: Rs. 43.50 lakhs) and liabilities of Rs. 83,000. No criminal cases are declared against him. Notably, despite being a sitting MLA for nearly a decade, there is virtually no digital footprint, media coverage, or documentation of development work, government schemes, or constituency-level achievements. No verified social media profiles, public statements, or interviews were found. This lack of public engagement and media presence is unusual for a two-term MLA from a major party. Voters should note that while Mayilvaganan has demonstrated electoral strength in Kulithalai, his decision to contest as Independent against his former party's official candidate creates a potential vote split. His legislative track record and reasons for parting ways with DMK remain unclear due to absence of public documentation.