Dhanapal

Dhanapal, 76, is contesting as an Independent candidate from Salem (West) constituency in Tamil Nadu. According to his affidavit, he declares himself as a watchman with 8th standard education, owning assets worth Rs. 15 lakhs (entirely movable assets with no land or property). However, there is significant confusion about his identity, as web searches primarily reveal P. Dhanapal, a prominent AIADMK politician born May 16, 1951, who holds a master's degree and has served as Speaker of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly from 2012 to 2021. The stark differences between the affidavit profile (watchman, 8th pass, minimal assets) and the known political figure (educated, senior legislator, ministerial experience) raise questions about whether these are the same person or a case of name similarity. If this is indeed the prominent P. Dhanapal, his political career spans over four decades, with first election victory in 1977 from Sankagiri constituency. He has won from multiple constituencies including Sankagiri (1977, 1980, 1984, 2001), Rasipuram (2011), and Avanashi (2016, 2021). He served in key positions including Deputy Speaker (2011-2012), Speaker (2012-2021), and held ministerial portfolios for Food and Co-operation and Adi Dravidar and Tribal Welfare. He belongs to the Arunthathiyar community, a Scheduled Caste. However, notably, P. Dhanapal has never contested from Salem (West) and has been a consistent AIADMK member, not an independent. No specific information about development work, public statements, or controversies related to an independent candidate Dhanapal from Salem (West) could be found. The constituency itself faces major civic challenges including deteriorating groundwater quality, poor sanitation infrastructure, and inadequate roads. Salem West has been an AIADMK stronghold historically, though PMK's R. Arul Ramadas won in 2021. Voters should seek clarity on this candidate's actual identity and political background, as the affidavit information and available public records show significant discrepancies that need explanation.