Suganya. J

Suganya J., 37, is a graduate and housewife contesting from the Perambalur (SC) constituency on a Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) ticket in the 2026 Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly elections. With declared assets of Rs. 8.35 lakhs and liabilities of Rs. 7.92 lakhs, she represents a party that has been steadily gaining ground in Tamil Nadu politics since its recognition as a state party by the Election Commission in May 2025. The NTK, founded on May 18, 2010 by filmmaker-turned-politician Seeman, advocates for Tamil nationalism, regional autonomy, and environmental consciousness. In Perambalur specifically, the party has shown remarkable growth—from just 2,521 votes (1.13%) in 2016 to 18,673 votes (7.84%) in 2021. The party secured approximately 8.2% vote share statewide in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, positioning itself as an emerging alternative to the DMK and AIADMK. Suganya faces strong competition from DMK's S. T. Jayalakshmi, AIADMK's R. Thamizhselvan, and TVK's K. Sivakumar in what promises to be a multi-cornered contest. However, the party has been embroiled in several controversies that voters should be aware of. In August 2024, Sivaraman, the NTK's district youth wing secretary in Krishnagiri, was arrested in connection with a fake NCC camp that led to the sexual assault of a 13-year-old girl. The party has also faced allegations of cyberbullying, with reports of members misusing social media to target individuals. In August 2025, the Madras High Court had to direct police protection for theaters screening the film 'Kingdom' after NTK members allegedly threatened theater owners over perceived misrepresentation of the Tamil Eelam issue. Voters in Perambalur must weigh the party's growing appeal and nationalist messaging against these serious controversies. While the NTK represents a fresh political force challenging the established Dravidian parties, the party's association with aggressive tactics and legal troubles raises questions about governance and accountability. As a first-time candidate, Suganya's personal track record remains largely unknown, making her candidacy heavily reliant on the party's broader image and momentum.