THURAIYUR (Reserved)

Thuraiyur (SC) constituency in Tiruchirappalli district witnessed mixed progress under MLA S. Stalinkumar (DMK) from 2021 to 2026. Significant development initiatives were launched, including a ₹108.9 crore comprehensive drinking water scheme under AMRUT 2.0 that began in 2023, aimed at benefiting 54,700 people with 95 km of pipelines and direct connections to 10,136 houses. The constituency benefited from statewide programs like the ₹8,000 crore rural roads development scheme (MGSMT), the Chief Minister's Breakfast Scheme reaching 17.53 lakh students, and the Kalaignarin Kanavu Illam housing scheme providing ₹7,000 crore for two lakh houses. Educational infrastructure saw substantial investment with a ₹46,767 crore budget allocation for 2025-2026, and the Naan Mudhalvan skill development scheme aimed at improving youth employment. However, the constituency faced persistent challenges that sparked public protests. Agricultural distress dominated grievances, particularly due to the Cauvery water dispute with Karnataka. In 2023, farmers protested when Karnataka restricted water release, affecting thousands of hectares. Chronic civic issues plagued the area: inadequate drainage caused flooding during 2021-2026 monsoons, garbage accumulation persisted in Thuraiyur town despite complaints, and rural areas suffered water shortages from handpump failures. Tribal communities in Pachamalai protested forest department encroachments on their traditional lands, while farmers organized multiple agitations demanding debt relief and fair water sharing, including a large rally in 2025. Infrastructure gaps remained significant concerns. Many promised road improvements, bridge constructions, and rural electrification projects were unfulfilled, with village roads remaining in poor condition. Healthcare facilities were understaffed with medicine shortages, and schools lacked adequate teachers and infrastructure. Land acquisition for development projects, including a 2024 highway expansion near Uppilliyapuram, triggered protests over inadequate compensation. While localized corruption allegations surfaced regarding land allocation and contracts, no major scandals or criminal cases against MLA Stalinkumar were officially documented. As the 2026 elections approach (scheduled April 23), voters should weigh the tangible infrastructure investments against persistent civic failures, agricultural distress, and unfulfilled promises that have fueled ongoing protests across the constituency.