The Big Fight: ‘Star’ tag may give Vijayakant leverage

Chennai

Political developments such as  the DMDK-PWF-TMC combine’s Chief Ministerial candidate Vijayakant being in the poll fray, Manithaneya Makkal Katchi returning their allotted seat to DMK in the Congress-DMK atlliance and PMK’s replacement of candidate has turned the attention of poll observers to Ulundurpet. However, Ulundurpet has not had a favourite party in the elections and has alternatively elected DMK and AIADMK since 1980. Also, despite being dominated by Vanniyars in the region, caste has little say in deciding the winner. While majority of Vanniyars owe allegiance to DMK, AIADMK’s sitting MLA R Kumaraguru belongs to the Udayar community. While DMK has fielded G R Vasanthavel, AIADMK has plumbed for Kumaraguru again.

But it’s not going to be easy for the Dravidian majors this time. Despite the unpredictability of the mandate here, Vijayakant seems to have a clear edge over others for more than one reason. The most important of all is that Vijayakant is still considered a film star among the rural population and him being the Chief Ministerial  candidate of the third front, may sway voters to his side. After Vanniyars, Dalits account for a major vote bank and with VCK by Vijayakant’s side, his chances seem bright. Also, the anti-incumbency mood over non-deliverance on basic amenities will influence voters’ decision. Vasanthavel is said to have the reach only to dig at sitting MLA’s vote share. However, it will be an acid test for PMK as it has to prove its worth on its own turf. But remember, Ulundurpet is unpredictable.

Vijayakant, DMDK

After emerging victorious from two PMK’s forts Vriddhachalam and Rishivandiyam, he has moved to Ulundurpet, which also has a large Vanniyar vote bank, maybe to prove PMK wrong again.

K Balu, PMK

Undoubtedly, Vijayakant’s move has made PMK more cautious as it has replaced its earlier candidate with K Balu, a lawyer by profession and more popular among the party cadre and the electorate as well.

R Kumaraguru, AIADMK

The sitting MLA rides high on the overall positive image over AIADMK’s rule. However, voters disappointment with him was evident as he was blocked from entering some villages to campaign.

G R Vasanthavel, DMK

Having been active for 20 years at the district level and won at local body elections, the first-time candidate is undaunted by Vijayakant’s popularity and sure that people will vote for DMK this time.