Arul Mani. H

Arul Mani H is a 46-year-old independent candidate contesting from Padmanabhapuram constituency in Tamil Nadu. With an 8th standard education, he lists his profession as agriculture and has declared total assets of Rs. 37.81 lakhs (Rs. 54,100 movable and Rs. 37.27 lakhs immovable) with no liabilities. His asset profile appears consistent with a small-scale agricultural background. The most significant concern for voters is his criminal record. His affidavit declares one serious criminal case with multiple charges under the Indian Penal Code, including rioting with deadly weapons (§148), voluntarily causing hurt by dangerous weapons (§324), rioting (§147), criminal trespass (§447), and voluntarily causing hurt (§323). These are serious charges involving violence and weapons, though the case status and details remain unclear. What makes this candidacy particularly unusual is the complete absence of any documented political history or public presence. Despite extensive searches, no information was found about his political activities, party affiliations, campaign initiatives, or community work in Padmanabhapuram. The constituency has traditionally been contested by major parties like DMK (current MLA Mano Thangaraj won in 2016 and 2021) and AIADMK, making an independent challenge with no visible groundwork highly unconventional. Voters should note that this candidate has no traceable record of public service, political engagement, or community activism. Combined with pending serious criminal charges and the lack of any public information or voter outreach, this candidacy raises questions about electoral intent and preparedness for legislative responsibilities.