Thangapandi. B

S. Thangapandi is a 33-year-old graduate professional representing Rajapalayam constituency in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly. Currently serving his second consecutive term as an MLA, he has been associated with the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) throughout his political career, though his affidavit lists him as an Independent candidate. His political journey began with a loss in 2011 when he secured 39.41% votes against AIADMK's K. Gopalsamy who won with 53.80%. However, he turned the constituency around in 2016, winning with 43.82% votes against AIADMK's A. A. S. Shyam (41.00%), and successfully defended his seat in 2021 with 41.94% votes against AIADMK's K. T. Rajenthra Bhalaji (39.73%). Rajapalayam, located in Virudhunagar district, is known for its textile industry and falls under the Tenkasi Lok Sabha constituency. Thangapandi's electoral success reflects his ability to maintain DMK's foothold in a traditionally competitive constituency with narrow victory margins. His victories came during periods of DMK's broader electoral resurgence in Tamil Nadu, with the party forming government in 2021 after a decade in opposition. Despite being a two-term MLA, Thangapandi maintains a relatively low public profile with limited documented social media presence or media visibility beyond election results and legislative activities. His affidavit declares zero immovable assets and only Rs. 1.02 lakhs in movable assets, which appears modest for a sitting legislator. No criminal cases are declared or found in public records. Voters should note the discrepancy between his affidavit listing him as 'Independent' while all available records confirm his DMK affiliation and party ticket for both elections. His consistent electoral performance suggests local support, but limited information is available about specific development work or legislative contributions during his two terms in office.