YERCAUD (Reserved)

Yercaud (ST) constituency in Tamil Nadu has been represented by MLA G. Chitra of AIADMK since her election victory in 2021, where she secured 121,561 votes with a margin of 25,955 votes and a voter turnout of 83.42%. Over the past five years, the constituency has seen several infrastructure improvements, particularly in road connectivity with the development of a third route to Yercaud—a 10.3 km stretch from the National Highway junction near Thevattipatti and Kadayampatti to reduce travel time and congestion. The Salem-Yercaud Main Road and Kuppanur-Yercaud Road also saw upgrades to handle heavy tourist traffic. Statewide schemes benefiting the constituency included the Chief Minister Breakfast Scheme for students, Naan Mudhalvan skill development program, water supply projects through TWAD Board, housing schemes for SC/ST communities, and employment initiatives under MGNREGA. However, the constituency has faced challenges, particularly concerning tribal land rights. Tribal communities staged protests and road blockades demanding pattas (land titles) for their lands, including poromboke lands they have cultivated, with some protesters being arrested by police. The constituency, like the rest of Tamil Nadu, was impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic with lockdown measures and health protocols. General civic issues affecting the state—including hikes in electricity tariffs, property taxes, water charges, and milk prices—likely affected Yercaud residents as well, though specific local data on these impacts is limited. As the 2026 Legislative Assembly elections approach (scheduled for April-May 2026), voters should consider both the infrastructure developments achieved and the ongoing land rights issues affecting tribal communities in this ST-reserved constituency. The lack of detailed, constituency-specific information on project implementation, budgets, and outcomes makes it difficult to comprehensively assess the MLA's performance. Voters should seek clarity on the resolution of tribal land disputes, the status of ongoing infrastructure projects, and specific plans for addressing the unique challenges faced by this hilly, predominantly tribal constituency.