Bhojarajan.M

M. Bhojarajan, 79, is a multi-faceted professional working as a planter, businessman, and advocate, with declared assets of ₹17.49 crore. As the BJP candidate for Udhagamandalam constituency in the Nilgiris district, he represents the party's determined effort to establish a foothold in Tamil Nadu, a state traditionally dominated by Dravidian parties like DMK and AIADMK. His educational background as a graduate professional and diverse professional experience spanning plantations, business, and legal practice position him as a candidate with substantive credentials beyond pure politics. Bhojarajan's most notable political achievement came in the 2021 Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly elections, where he secured 60,182 votes (43.07% vote share) from Udhagamandalam, losing to Congress candidate R. Ganesh by only 5,348 votes. This performance marked a dramatic improvement for the BJP in the constituency, demonstrating his ability to mobilize support in a region where the party previously had minimal presence. His campaign focused on promoting BJP's national development agenda while addressing local concerns including infrastructure development, tourism enhancement, and economic opportunities in the hill station region. However, Bhojarajan's candidacy exists within a controversial broader context of BJP Tamil Nadu's activities. While no specific scandals or legal cases are directly linked to him personally, the state BJP leadership has faced multiple controversies including FIRs against state chief Nainar Nagendran and prominent leader K. Annamalai for allegedly inciting communal hatred during the "Murugan Devotees' Conference" in Madurai. Additionally, the revival of a cash-for-votes case involving the state BJP chief and the party's involvement in religious disputes over temple-dargah coexistence at Tiruparankundram Hill have raised concerns about the party's approach to Tamil Nadu's pluralistic society. The BJP's 2026 manifesto notably omitted specific assurances for minorities and Dalits, instead emphasizing Hindu cultural identity and temple-related initiatives. For voters in Udhagamandalam, Bhojarajan represents a dedicated party worker who has demonstrated electoral competitiveness and organizational skills. His professional background in plantations and business may resonate with the local economy focused on tea estates and tourism. However, voters should consider whether the BJP's broader strategy in Tamil Nadu—including its approach to religious issues and minority communities—aligns with the pluralistic character of the Nilgiris region. His ability to deliver on welfare promises like ₹2,000 monthly assistance for women and agricultural support will depend significantly on whether the BJP can overcome its current position as a minor player in Tamil Nadu politics.