SALEM (WEST)

Salem (West) constituency in Tamil Nadu saw significant development initiatives between 2021 and 2026, but also faced considerable controversies and civic challenges. The constituency is represented by Arul Ramadas of PMK, who won in 2021 with 105,483 votes (49.07%) as part of the AIADMK alliance, defeating DMK's A. Rajendran. During this period, the DMK state government announced major infrastructure projects including a ₹530 crore underground drainage system covering 520 kilometers, ₹158 crore drinking water schemes, and ₹21.40 crore in school infrastructure under the Namakku Naame scheme launched in September 2021. Salem was also designated as one of 11 Smart Cities in Tamil Nadu, with plans for a double-decker bus terminus and transit-oriented development. Industrial initiatives included a ₹1,553 crore expansion of Salem Steel Plant with an exclusive SEZ, plans for a software park in Karuppur, and a ₹25 crore integrated textile park. However, the constituency faced serious governance challenges and public dissatisfaction. The controversial Chennai-Salem 8-lane expressway (₹10,000 crore) remained stalled due to farmer protests and land acquisition disputes throughout the period. Residents complained about deteriorating groundwater quality, sewage mixing with rainwater, inadequate drainage, and poor civic amenities. Multiple protests erupted over land disputes, environmental concerns related to proposed dyeing units, and demands for tribal land titles. Opposition parties, particularly AIADMK, accused the DMK government of not fulfilling election promises and stalling major projects, including the textile park and silver anklet manufacturing unit. Corruption allegations emerged involving TASMAC operations and job scams, leading to protests and legal challenges. As voters approach the 2026 election, they face a constituency that has seen substantial project announcements but mixed implementation. While schemes worth over ₹1,000 crore were announced for Salem, key projects like the expressway remain unresolved after five years of controversy. Residents should consider whether the announced infrastructure improvements materialized in their areas, whether civic issues like water quality and drainage were addressed, and which party alliance can better balance industrial development with environmental and agricultural concerns. The traditional AIADMK stronghold shifted to PMK in 2021, and the DMK is expected to mount a strong challenge in 2026, making voter assessment of the past five years' governance particularly crucial.