Congress releases names of 27 candidates out of 28 for Tamil Nadu polls

Chennai, April 3 (IANS) The Congress on Friday unveiled its list of candidates for the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, signalling a key step in its preparations as part of the DMK-led alliance.

The list, finalised by the party’s Central Election Committee, includes nominees for 27 of the 28 constituencies allotted to the Congress, with the Melur seat yet to be announced.

The announcement was made by AICC General Secretary K. C. Venugopal, who said the selection process was completed after detailed consultations with state leaders and alliance partners.

The Congress is contesting the polls in alliance with the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), with both parties aiming to retain power in the state.

Among the prominent candidates, Durai Chandrasekar has been fielded from Ponneri, while JMH Aassan Maulaana will contest from Velachery.

Tamil Nadu Congress Committee president K. Selvaperunthagai has been nominated from Sriperumbudur, and A. M. Munirathinam will represent the party in Sholingur. In western Tamil Nadu, former MP Dr A. Chella Kumar will contest from Krishnagiri, and Gopinath Palaniyappan has been named as the candidate for Erode (East).

In the Nilgiris district, B. Ramachandran will enter the fray from Udhagamandalam. The party has also announced candidates across the delta and central regions, including Jamal Yunus Mohammed from Mayiladuthurai, T. Rama Chandhiran from Aranthangi, S. Mangudi from Karaikudi, and Ganesan Ashokan from Sivakasi.

In the southern districts, Ruby Manoharan has been nominated from Nanguneri, while Dr Tharagai Cuthbert will contest from Colachel.

T. T. Praveen has been fielded from Vilavancode, and Advocate S. Rajesh Kumar will represent the party in Killiyoor.

Party sources indicated that the remaining candidate for Melur will be announced shortly, completing the Congress’ list for the elections.

The leadership expressed confidence that the selected candidates reflect a balanced mix of experience, grassroots connect, and regional representation.

With the campaign entering a crucial phase, the Congress is expected to intensify its outreach efforts across constituencies in coordination with its alliance partners, as Tamil Nadu heads towards a closely watched electoral contest.