M. Kolanji

M. Kolanji, 54, is an Independent candidate contesting from the Thiru-Vi-Ka-Nagar (SC) constituency in Tamil Nadu. Declaring his profession as 'Coolie' (manual laborer), he represents one of the most modest financial profiles among candidates, with total declared assets of just Rs. 15,500 in movable property and no immovable assets or liabilities. His educational qualification is listed as 'Literate', and he has declared no criminal cases. Despite filing nomination papers, Kolanji has no visible media presence, social media footprint, or documented campaign activities. Thiru-Vi-Ka-Nagar is a reserved constituency for Scheduled Castes, formed after delimitation in 2008, covering areas including Perambur, Ayanavaram, Otteri, Pattalam, and Pulianthope within the Chennai North Lok Sabha constituency. The seat is currently held by DMK's P. Sivakumar, who won in 2021 with 61.61% of votes. The constituency has historically alternated between DMK and AIADMK, with major parties dominating electoral politics. Voters in this constituency face pressing civic challenges including deteriorating roads, encroachment-related traffic congestion, and demands for better public infrastructure. Independent candidates typically struggle in Tamil Nadu's Dravidian party-dominated landscape, particularly in reserved constituencies where caste consolidation and party machinery play decisive roles. With minimal financial resources and no documented campaign presence, Kolanji faces formidable odds against established party candidates. What voters should know: This is a candidate with genuine working-class credentials but absolutely no visible campaign infrastructure, media presence, or public outreach. His candidacy appears symbolic rather than competitive, and voters seeking information about his platform, vision, or plans will find none publicly available.