KUMBAKONAM

Kumbakonam constituency, represented by DMK MLA G. Anbalagan since 2021, has experienced a mixed five-year term marked by significant administrative upgrades alongside serious governance controversies. The most notable achievement was Kumbakonam's elevation to Tamil Nadu's 21st Municipal Corporation on August 24, 2021, covering 42.9 km² and incorporating Darasuram town panchayat and 13 adjacent panchayats. This upgrade aimed to improve urban infrastructure, sanitation, water supply, and governance. The constituency also benefited from statewide DMK schemes including Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thittam (₹1,000 monthly assistance to 1.31 crore women, launched 2021), free bus travel for women, and the Chief Minister's Breakfast Scheme expanded to urban areas in 2024. Railway modernization plans were submitted in February 2023, with Kumbakonam station recognized as the cleanest in Tamil Nadu, serving over 10,000 passengers daily. However, the constituency's development story has been overshadowed by serious corruption allegations against MLA Anbalagan. The Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) registered an FIR against him and family members for acquiring disproportionate assets worth ₹11.32 crore during his tenure as Higher Education Minister (May 2016-2021), with ₹2.82 crore in unaccounted cash seized during searches. Beyond corruption, residents have faced persistent civic issues including monsoon flooding, inadequate garbage disposal, and water shortages. Public dissatisfaction has grown over stalled development projects under the Smart City Mission, broken promises regarding infrastructure, and increased electricity tariffs and property taxes. Significant protests have occurred demanding Kumbakonam's upgrade to district headquarters status, reflecting historical grievances about administrative recognition. While specific constituency-level projects are poorly documented, Kumbakonam likely benefited from the MLA Constituency Development Scheme (₹702 crore allocated annually from 2021-2024 statewide, with over 34,000 works initiated). As voters head to polls on April 23, 2026, they face a choice between continuity with the DMK, represented again by Anbalagan despite corruption charges, or alternatives from BJP, PMK(R), NTK, and TVK. Voters should weigh the Municipal Corporation upgrade and state welfare schemes against the serious corruption allegations, unfulfilled local promises, and persistent civic infrastructure problems that have marked these five years.