POLLACHI

Pollachi constituency witnessed a closely contested political landscape from 2021 to 2026, with V. Jayaraman of AIADMK winning the 2021 Assembly election by a razor-thin margin of just 1,725 votes (0.98%) against DMK's Dr. K. Varadharajan. However, the political tide shifted significantly by 2024, when DMK's K. Eswarasamy won the Lok Sabha election with a commanding margin of 252,042 votes (22.38%). The period saw significant party defections, with several AIADMK leaders including O. Panneerselvam and P. H. Manoj Pandian being expelled and later joining the DMK between 2022 and 2026. On the development front, Pollachi benefited from state-wide infrastructure initiatives including combined drinking water schemes implemented by the Tamil Nadu Water Supply and Drainage Board in Pollachi South, Pollachi North, and Kinathukadavu areas. Road connectivity improvements were undertaken through National Highway upgrades and rural road development under PMGSY. The constituency also benefited from broader regional projects like the city gas distribution network in neighboring districts and industrial development through SIPCOT estates. Employment initiatives included the Naan Mudhalvan Skill Development Program, while housing schemes like TENAGLY aimed to provide residential solutions. However, the constituency faced significant challenges and controversies. The notorious 2019 Pollachi sexual assault and extortion case continued to haunt the area, with nine men receiving life sentences during this period. Residents voiced strong dissatisfaction over unmet promises regarding agricultural demands, cold storage facilities, and district bifurcation. Chronic civic issues persisted, including water shortages, flooding, and garbage disposal problems, leading to multiple protests. Farmers demonstrated demanding fair land acquisition compensation, highlighting deep-seated governance grievances. As voters approach the expected April-May 2026 Assembly elections, they should consider both the infrastructure improvements made through state schemes and the persistent civic challenges that remain unaddressed. The significant political shift from a narrow AIADMK victory in 2021 to a decisive DMK win in 2024 Lok Sabha polls, combined with ongoing issues around broken promises and basic amenities, will likely shape electoral choices. Voters should weigh the tangible development projects against unfulfilled commitments and the constituency's ability to resolve long-standing civic problems.