Lakshmanan.S

S. Lakshmanan, 58, is a graduate professional engaged in agriculture and managing a private company, who has entered electoral politics as a candidate for the newly-formed Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) from Salem West constituency in the 2026 Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly elections. With declared assets of approximately Rs. 16.30 crores (movable: Rs. 4.57 crores, immovable: Rs. 11.73 crores) and liabilities of Rs. 63.25 lakhs, he represents the business-professional class entering politics through actor Vijay's political platform. Lakshmanan's candidacy comes with a notable concern: his affidavit declares one case registered by the Vigilance & Anti-Corruption department (Cr.No.4/AC/2012, dated 27.07.2012) that was referred to a tribunal for disciplinary proceedings. While details of the case outcome are not publicly available, the involvement of the Vigilance department suggests allegations of corruption or official misconduct that were serious enough to warrant tribunal-level proceedings. This remains a question mark for voters seeking transparency. As a first-time electoral candidate with TVK, Lakshmanan has no prior election history or legislative track record to evaluate. He is contesting in Salem West against candidates from established regional parties including PMK, DMDK, NTK, and PMK(R). His candidacy is largely riding on the popularity and promises of TVK's founder Vijay, whose party has announced a manifesto focusing on welfare schemes including Rs. 2,500 monthly aid for women, interest-free loans, and AI-led governance initiatives. Voters in Salem West should note that Lakshmanan is a political newcomer with no proven track record in public service or governance. His assets suggest financial success in agriculture and business management, but the pending Vigilance case raises questions about his past conduct. As TVK itself is untested in governance, voters will need to decide whether to take a chance on this new political formation and its candidates based on the party's vision rather than individual candidate credentials.