NATHAM

Natham constituency in Tamil Nadu, represented by Natham R. Viswanathan of AIADMK (who won in 2021), has experienced the broader statewide development initiatives launched by the DMK government from 2021 to 2026, though he serves in opposition. The constituency likely benefited from major schemes including the Jal Jeevan Scheme providing drinking water to over 7.15 lakh rural houses statewide, the Chief Minister's Comprehensive Health Insurance Scheme with coverage increased to Rs 10 lakh per family, expanded breakfast schemes in schools, and housing programs under the Kalaignar Kanavu Illam Scheme. As former Minister for Electricity under the previous AIADMK government, Viswanathan's experience in the power sector was notable, though the constituency development through MLACDS funds (Rs 702 crore allocated annually per MLA for 2021-24) would have been available for local projects. However, serious controversies have overshadowed Viswanathan's tenure. In August 2023, the Madras High Court sought a status report on corruption charges alleging he received Rs 525 crore in kickbacks related to power purchase agreements during his time as Electricity Minister, with claims of causing Rs 25,000 crore loss to the state. Additionally, in March 2021, the DMK accused him of election bribery by allegedly distributing currency notes to voters during his campaign. These legal challenges represent significant concerns about governance and accountability. While specific constituency-level project details for Natham are limited in available data, residents would have experienced statewide welfare schemes including free bus travel for women, the Naan Mudhalvan skill development program, expanded healthcare facilities with special camps for disease detection, and the Swachh Bharat Mission with over 2.43 lakh toilets constructed across rural Tamil Nadu since 2021-22. The broader economic context includes substantial price increases in electricity tariffs (up to 45%), property taxes (up to 150%), and other essential services that have affected household budgets. Voters should consider both the development schemes implemented at the state level and the serious corruption allegations pending against their sitting MLA when evaluating the constituency's performance over these five years.