A.Soniya

A. Soniya, 25, is a first-time candidate from the Naam Tamilar Katchi contesting from the Vellore constituency in the 2026 Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly elections. A 12th pass who identifies as a housewife, she enters politics during a significant phase for her party, which has emerged as Tamil Nadu's third-largest political force. With declared assets of Rs. 28.87 lakhs (entirely movable assets) and liabilities of Rs. 8.75 lakhs, she represents the younger generation of NTK candidates fielded across all 234 constituencies. Soniya joins a party that has seen remarkable growth under the leadership of Seeman, expanding its vote share from just 1.1% in 2016 to 6.72% in 2021. NTK's platform centers on Tamil nationalism, cultural identity, and social justice issues that resonate particularly with youth and marginalized communities. The party's 2026 manifesto emphasizes decentralized governance, anti-drug measures, agricultural policies, and climate resilience. In Vellore, NTK previously fielded N. Poonkundran in 2021, who secured 8,530 votes (4.78%). However, the party has faced controversy over its protest methods. Recent incidents include disruptions and vandalism at theaters screening the film 'Kingdom', which NTK claimed misrepresented the Tamil Eelam issue, resulting in the arrest of 16 party cadres. The Madras High Court had to intervene to protect theaters while emphasizing the importance of peaceful protests and artistic freedom. Voters in Vellore should know that Soniya represents a rising regional party with a clear ideological stance but limited governance experience. She faces competition from established parties like DMK and AIADMK, as well as newer entrants like actor Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam. As a political newcomer from a party with no previous electoral wins but growing influence, her candidacy reflects NTK's strategy of fielding fresh faces committed to Tamil nationalist ideology.