Palanivel. M.S

Palanivel MS, 57, is a mining business operator from Tamil Nadu with 12th standard education, contesting the 2026 Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly elections from Veerapandi constituency on a Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) ticket. With declared assets worth ₹35.4 crores (including ₹15.37 crores movable and ₹20.02 crores immovable assets) and liabilities of ₹9.23 crores, he represents substantial financial standing in the mining sector. His affidavit shows one pending criminal case, though details of charges are not specified. Veerapandi constituency in Salem district has traditionally been contested between DMK and AIADMK, with AIADMK's M. Rajamuthu winning in 2021 with 50.24% votes against DMK's A.K. Tharun who secured 41.29%. In 2026, Palanivel faces the same Dr. A.K. Tharun from DMK and Dr. Balaji Sukumar from AIADMK, making it a three-way contest with the new entrant TVK challenging the established Dravidian parties. Palanivel's candidacy is part of TVK's broader electoral debut led by actor-turned-politician Vijay, who founded the party in February 2024. The party's manifesto emphasizes social justice, welfare schemes, and inclusive development drawing from the legacies of Periyar, Ambedkar, and Kamaraj. However, TVK has faced serious controversy including the September 2025 Karur rally crowd crush that killed 41 people, with FIRs filed against party leadership for safety violations. Voters should note that Palanivel MS has no prior electoral experience, limited public visibility, and no verified social media presence or documented public statements. His substantial declared assets in the mining business and the party's newness to electoral politics are key considerations. The constituency's historical preference for established Dravidian parties presents a significant challenge for this first-time candidate from a debut political formation.