VIRUDHUNAGAR

Virudhunagar constituency, represented by DMK MLA Seenivasan A.R.R since his 2021 election victory with a margin of 21,339 votes, has witnessed significant infrastructure development over the past five years. Major projects include the four-laning of the Sethiyathope-Cholapuram section of NH-36 (₹2,350 crore), six-laning of Tuticorin Port Access Road (₹200 crore), and extensive water supply improvements under the Jal Jeevan Scheme covering 7.15 lakh rural houses (₹2,123 crore). The constituency benefited from statewide initiatives including construction of 3.30 lakh houses under the Prime Minister's Housing Scheme, installation of 3.65 lakh streetlights, and stormwater drain projects worth ₹594 crore. Education saw 1,384 new classrooms added, while employment schemes generated over 12 lakh man-days of work. The state government attracted ₹9.74 lakh crore in investments between 2021-2023, creating an estimated 31 lakh jobs. However, the period was not without controversies. The DMK government faced corruption allegations, including the TASMAC liquor scandal investigated by the Enforcement Directorate involving alleged corruption worth ₹1,000 crore. The constituency also grappled with industrial pollution and land acquisition issues, particularly affecting the firecrackers industry. Civic issues like flooding and drainage problems plagued the region, similar to other Tamil Nadu areas, indicating infrastructure execution challenges despite significant project announcements. As voters approach the scheduled April 23, 2026 assembly elections, they should consider both the substantial infrastructure investments and welfare schemes implemented during this term, as well as the corruption allegations and civic management issues that emerged. The constituency saw major development across roads, water supply, housing, and employment, but questions about governance transparency and project execution quality remain. Voters should weigh these development achievements against the controversies and assess whether local civic issues like drainage and pollution have been adequately addressed.