SALEM (NORTH)

Salem (North) constituency witnessed significant development activity between 2021 and 2026 under DMK's R. Rajendran, who won the seat in the 2021 Assembly elections by defeating AIADMK's G. Venkatachalam with a margin of 7,588 votes. The DMK government announced projects worth ₹10,000 crore for Salem over three and a half years, including major infrastructure upgrades like a 7.87 km double-decker flyover (the longest in Tamil Nadu), a €456 million SUEZ water supply contract covering 1,800 km of pipeline replacement, and ₹530 crore underground drainage system. Educational institutions received new buildings, including a ₹4.41 crore classroom at Government Arts College Kumarasamipatti, and the ₹29.5 crore Neo Tidel Park was inaugurated to boost IT employment. The Namakku Naame Scheme deployed ₹21.40 crore for civic improvements including waterbody renovation and infrastructure upgrades. However, residents expressed concerns about the lack of major new industrial or agricultural projects during this period, with some development initiatives like the textile park and silver anklet manufacturing unit facing delays or remaining unoccupied. Civic issues persisted, including deteriorating groundwater quality, sewage problems, and pollution from dyeing units that prompted local protests. Environmental concerns led villagers in some areas to demand assurances against industrial pollution before allowing election campaigning. The constituency also saw preparations for the 6-laning of the 102.5 km Salem-Chengapalli NH 544 stretch, though detailed project work was still in early stages. As the 2026 elections approach, Salem (North) remains politically competitive with the DMK defending its seat against AIADMK, PMK, NTK, and the emerging Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) led by actor Vijay. Voters should consider both the substantial infrastructure investments made and the concerns about industrial development stagnation, environmental issues, and basic civic amenities. The balance between announced mega-projects and ground-level implementation, particularly regarding water quality and pollution control, will likely influence electoral outcomes.