Kottaikumar

Kottaikumar, 58, is a graduate professional and practicing lawyer contesting from the Melur Assembly constituency in Tamil Nadu on a Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) ticket in the 2026 elections. With declared assets of Rs. 2.65 crore (including Rs. 1.65 crore movable and Rs. 1 crore immovable assets) and liabilities of Rs. 62.30 lakh, he represents a party that has been steadily growing its presence in Tamil Nadu politics. NTK, founded in 2010 and led by actor-politician Seeman, advocates Tamil nationalism, cultural preservation, and positions itself as an alternative to traditional Dravidian parties. Kottaikumar's candidacy is part of NTK's ambitious strategy of fielding candidates in all 234 constituencies for 2026, signaling the party's determination to establish itself as a statewide force. While specific information about Kottaikumar's individual political activities and achievements remains limited in public records, he represents a party that saw its vote share jump dramatically from 1.1% in 2016 to 6.72% in 2021, making it the third-largest party by vote share. This growth has been attributed to NTK's appeal among youth voters and those seeking alternatives to the DMK-AIADMK duopoly. However, the challenge facing Kottaikumar and NTK is converting vote share into seats. In the 2021 Melur election, the NTK candidate secured 10,669 votes (5.87%), losing to the AIADMK candidate. Pre-election surveys for 2026 predict NTK may secure 4-5% vote share statewide with no seats expected. The party has also faced controversies, including protests against films that led to Madras High Court interventions. Voters in Melur will need to assess whether Kottaikumar's candidacy represents a genuine alternative or a protest vote in a constituency where traditional parties have dominated.