M.I. Thahira Banu

M.I. Thahira Banu, 46, is an independent candidate contesting from Perambur constituency in Tamil Nadu's 2026 Assembly elections. With education up to 10th standard and declaring her profession as 'Business', she represents one of the lesser-known independent challengers in what has become one of Tamil Nadu's most watched electoral battles this cycle. Her declared assets of Rs. 1,18,000 with no immovable property ownership and zero liabilities present a modest financial profile compared to most candidates. What is most striking about Banu's candidacy is the complete absence of any public record, media coverage, or digital presence. Despite extensive searches, no information could be found about her business activities, political background, community work, or campaign messaging. She does not appear in any official candidate lists published by major media outlets covering the Perambur race, though her affidavit confirms her independent candidacy. Perambur, a constituency with over 2.22 lakh voters under Chennai North Lok Sabha seat, is witnessing an intense multi-cornered contest in 2026. The incumbent DMK MLA R.D. Sekar, who won in both 2021 and the 2019 by-election, faces a high-profile challenge from actor-turned-politician Vijay of TVK, along with candidates from PMK and NTK. The constituency has historically alternated between DMK and AIADMK, with AIADMK's P. Vetrivel winning in 2016. Voters should note that Banu is entering a highly competitive race with no visible campaign infrastructure, public presence, or documented political experience. As an independent candidate with minimal assets and no online footprint, she faces significant challenges in gaining visibility against well-established party machinery and celebrity candidates. Her lack of any documented community engagement or public statements raises questions about her preparedness for electoral politics in one of Tamil Nadu's most contested constituencies.