Rajya Sabha election: Congress fields new face Christopher Tilak in Tamil Nadu

In a surprise choice, the Congress on Thursday nominated Christopher Manickam, alias M. Christopher Tilak, a new face, for its Rajya Sabha seat from Tamil Nadu.

The 53-year-old is one of the secretaries of the All India Congress Committee, and had been in charge of northeastern States such as Manipur and Nagaland, party sources said.

A Christian, Mr. Christopher is an engineer who holds a management degree. Speaking to reporters after filing his nomination papers, Mr. Christopher termed himself an “ordinary worker” who was “identified” by party leader Rahul Gandhi. “Though I am not well known, I will get myself introduced properly through my work for the people of the State,” Mr. Christopher said while thanking party leaders for giving him the responsibility.

TNCC president K. Selvaperunthagai thanked the party leadership for rewarding an ordinary party worker who just “had a sovereign of gold and a cash balance of just ₹13,000 as declared in his nomination papers”.

Echoing his sentiments, All India Congress Committee in-charge for Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, Girish Chodankar, said it was a proud moment for the party as it had nominated a youngster from an ordinary family, who had devoted himself to party work. “The party is honouring hard-working, talented youngsters,” he said.

ANDHRA PRADESH: AICC Secretary Christopher Tilak with Rahul Gandhi. Arrangement
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ARRANGEMENT

Mr. Christopher had been maintaining a low profile in Tiruchi, where he lives. “He had studied largely in Madurai. As he was in charge of the northeastern States, he was mostly away. However, ever since I took over, I have been inviting him to party functions in the city. His nomination is a proud moment for the party in the city,” said L. Rex, Urban District Congress Committee president.

With his nomination and the renomination of Tiruchi N. Siva by the DMK, Tiruchi district is set to hold a rather unique distinction of having three Rajya Sabha members at the same time. In June 2025, writer Rajathi Salma, hailing from Thuvarankurichi in Tiruchi district, was elected to the Rajya Sabha as the DMK candidate.

With different Assembly segments in Tiruchi district coming under Tiruchi, Perambalur and Karur Lok Sabha constituencies, the district is represented by three Lok Sabha members: Durai Vaiko (MDMK), K.N. Arun Nehru (DMK) and S. Jothimani (Congress).

“It is a rare and ripe opportunity. With three Rajya Sabha and three Lok Sabha members, we should leverage it for the growth and overall development of the district,” said H. Ghouse Baig, a civic activist.