Rakesh R

Rakesh R, 38, is the AIADMK candidate for Sankarapuram constituency in the 2026 Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly elections scheduled for April 23, 2026. A graduate who describes himself as self-employed and involved in politics, Rakesh has declared assets of Rs. 61.40 lakhs—entirely movable assets with no immovable property. His financial profile shows a modest asset base for a political candidate, with no liabilities declared. Rakesh faces an uphill electoral battle in Sankarapuram, a constituency that has favored DMK in recent years. In 2016, DMK's T. Udhayasuriyan defeated AIADMK's P. Mohan with 90,920 votes (44.72%) against 76,392 votes (37.58%), and Udhayasuriyan retained the seat in 2021. The constituency, located in Kallakurichi district, is part of the Kallakurichi Lok Sabha constituency and comprises portions of Sankarapuram, Chinnasalem, and Kallakkurichi taluks. AIADMK last won this seat in 1991 when C. Ramaswamy secured 68.06% of votes. A notable concern in Rakesh's profile is his declaration of one criminal case involving charges under Sections 143 (unlawful assembly), 341 (wrongful restraint), and 269 (negligent act likely to spread infection of disease dangerous to life). While none are classified as serious IPC offenses, the combination suggests involvement in an incident with public order and health implications. The absence of any documented development work, public initiatives, or media coverage makes it difficult for voters to assess his local impact or political track record. Voters should note that Rakesh is a first-time candidate with minimal public information available about his political experience, community work, or policy positions. He is contesting as part of the AIADMK-led NDA alliance alongside BJP and PMK, in a constituency where his party faces strong anti-incumbency sentiment at the state level and formidable opposition from the ruling DMK.