Tamil Nadu Assembly election 2026: DMK, AIADMK, BJP candidates for different constituencies in one neighbourhood in Erode

In a rare convergence this election season, three candidates contesting from different Assembly constituencies are residing within a 100-metre stretch in a single neighbourhood in the city, drawing attention to E.V.R. Periyar Nagar, popularly known as Periyar Nagar, as an unusual political cluster.

S. Muthusamy, Minister for Housing, Prohibition and Excise and the incumbent MLA, is seeking re-election from the Erode (West) Assembly constituency. He lives on 80 Feet Road and has been based in the locality for several years, though his name remains on the electoral rolls in the Sholinganallur constituency in Chennai, where his official residence is located in Injambakkam.

Residents say his house draws a steady stream of visitors. “Party cadre and members of the public come regularly with grievances,” said V. Thambidurai, an autorickshaw driver. Until a few years ago, Mr. Muthusamy lived next door to Modakkurichi MLA C. Saraswathi, a medical practitioner who resides at H-72 in the area. “They were neighbours despite belonging to different political parties,” he recalled.

Nearby, R. Manoharan of the AIADMK is contesting from the Erode (East) Assembly constituency. He resides at M-34 and is the party’s area secretary and a former zonal chairman. His residence, too, sees frequent visitors. “People approach him with local issues,” said a shopkeeper.

Also living in the neighbourhood is S. Kirthika, the BJP candidate from the Modakkurichi Assembly constituency and daughter-in-law of Ms. Saraswathi. Though new to electoral politics, she has been engaged in social service through the Arram Charity Trust, party cadre said.

With posters, party flags and frequent vehicle movement, campaign activity has intensified in recent weeks. All three constituencies are witnessing keen contests this election, and despite representing different political parties, the candidates share a cordial relationship. Residents say the heightened political activity has remained orderly, lending a distinct character to the campaign in the neighbourhood as polling approaches.