Vigneshkumar S

Vigneshkumar S., 29, is a graduate professional and advocate by profession, contesting the 2026 Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly elections from Madurai West on a Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) ticket. With declared assets of Rs. 72.84 lakhs and liabilities of Rs. 28 lakhs, this is his first major electoral contest, representing a party that has seen growing support in the constituency—NTK's vote share jumped from 1.88% in 2016 to 9.12% in 2021. However, Vigneshkumar's candidacy is overshadowed by serious criminal allegations. In August 2024, while serving as NTK's district youth wing secretary, he was arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting a 13-year-old girl at a fake NCC camp in Krishnagiri district. The camp, held from August 5-9, 2024, involved 41 students including 17 girls, and four other girls also reported harassment. An FIR was registered and Vigneshkumar was taken into custody, later being hospitalized due to injuries sustained during detention. Notably, his election affidavit declares zero criminal cases, raising serious questions about disclosure. Beyond personal controversies, NTK as a party has been active in Madurai West politics, criticizing local representatives for incomplete development projects like unfinished flyovers and sewer problems. The party, founded in 2010 by former film director Seeman and recognized as a state party in May 2025, advocates Tamil nationalism and typically contests independently, refusing alliances with DMK, AIADMK, or BJP. NTK has also been involved in controversial protests, including aggressive demonstrations against films perceived as anti-Tamil, and has been accused of cyberbullying police officers and their families. Voters in Madurai West face a critical decision: while NTK represents an alternative to traditional Dravidian parties with its Tamil-centric agenda, Vigneshkumar's candidacy carries the weight of serious criminal allegations involving minor girls that appear undisclosed in official documents. This raises fundamental questions about transparency, accountability, and candidate suitability for public office.