Ex-Tamil Nadu CM Panneerselvam to face triangular contest in Ramanathapuram LS seat

Former Tamil Nadu chief minister O. Panneerselvam is set to face a tough challenge in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in the state’s Ramanathapuram constituency. Panneerselvam, contesting as an Independent candidate supported by the NDA, is locked in a triangular contest with sitting MP Kani K. Navas of the IUML and AIADMK’s P. Jeyaperumal.

Panneerselvam, a member of the influential Thevar community, has boosted the NDA’s pre-poll spirits with his candidacy. The constituency, comprising six assembly segments, is witnessing a three-cornered race due to the popularity of both Panneerselvam and Jeyaperumal.

Despite Panneerselvam’s entry as an Independent candidate, the BJP leadership believes that the support for him will result in the development of the Ramanathapuram constituency, citing anti-incumbency against the DMK government in the state.

Political analysts predict a significant shift in the AIADMK vote bank due to Panneerselvam’s emotional connection with local party workers. While Kani K. Navas holds a numerical advantage, the unpredictability of elections could lead to a tough battle in Ramanathapuram.

Senior AIADMK leader, on condition of anonymity, emphasized Panneerselvam’s past contributions to party workers while serving as the Chief Minister, suggesting that his candidature may sway votes in his favor. Expert psephologist K. Selvanathan believes Panneerselvam’s presence will shake up the election dynamics, potentially challenging both the sitting MP and AIADMK candidate.