Rajaa.T.R.B

Dr. T.R.B. Rajaa (Thalikkottai Rajuthevar Baalu Rajaa), 49, is a third-generation DMK politician and son of veteran leader T.R. Baalu. He holds a doctorate and has transformed Mannargudi from an AIADMK stronghold to a DMK bastion through three consecutive victories in 2011, 2016, and 2021. Currently serving as Minister for Industries, Investment Promotions, and Commerce since 2023, Rajaa has progressively increased his victory margins—from 3,982 votes in 2011 to 37,393 votes in 2021—demonstrating growing political dominance in the constituency known as 'Dhakshin Dwaraka' (Southern Dwarka). Rajaa has held significant party responsibilities including DMK IT Wing Secretary and the first secretary of the DMK's NRI Wing appointed in 2021. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin appointed him as a member of the Tamil Nadu State Planning Commission and Chairman of the Legislative Committee on Estimates following DMK's 2021 victory. His political influence is rooted in the Baalu family's strong presence in the delta region and the constituency's significant Kallar community, whose support has been crucial to his electoral success. However, Rajaa's ministerial tenure has been clouded by serious corruption allegations. BJP president K. Annamalai accused the DMK government of an Rs 888-crore cash-for-jobs scam in the Municipal Administration and Water Supply Department, where 2,538 posts were allegedly sold for Rs 35 lakh each. The Enforcement Directorate conducted searches in April 2025, and the Madras High Court directed the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption to register an FIR based on a 232-page ED dossier. While no personal charges have been filed against Rajaa specifically, these allegations against his government have become fodder for opposition attacks. Voters should know that Rajaa brings both strong administrative experience as Industries Minister and proven electoral appeal, but faces the 2026 elections amid ongoing investigations into his government's recruitment practices. His declared assets of Rs. 71 crore (including agriculture and real estate holdings) and liabilities of Rs. 15.5 crore warrant scrutiny. The fragmented opposition—including AMMK, TVK, and NTK challengers—may capitalize on corruption allegations to challenge his fourth-term bid in what promises to be a complex, multi-cornered contest.