പനീർസെൽവം ഒ.

Former Tamil Nadu chief minister O Panneerselvam is contesting the 2026 Assembly elections from the Bodinayakanur constituency in Theni district — his first electoral battle after a seismic political shift to the DMK following his expulsion from the AIADMK.

A three-time Chief Minister and once a trusted confidant of late AIADMK supremo J Jayalalithaa, Panneerselvam’s switch to the rival camp marks one of the most significant realignments in Tamil Nadu politics in recent years. His move has reshaped the contest in his stronghold, where he now seeks to retain relevance under a new political banner.

From running a tea shop in Theni, Panneerselvam rose to become Chief Minister for the first time in 2001, and went on to hold the post thrice — in 2001-02, 2014-15 and 2016-17 — often stepping in during moments of crisis for the AIADMK leadership. Over the years, he has also held key portfolios, including finance, revenue and public works, besides serving as Deputy Chief Minister and Leader of the House.

Bodinayakanur has remained central to his electoral career. He has won the seat multiple times, including in 2016 and 2021, when he secured over 1 lakh votes and maintained a strong vote share. The constituency, historically associated with AIADMK dominance and once represented by Jayalalithaa, is shaped by strong grassroots networks, caste equations and local leadership influence.

The 2026 contest, however, presents a markedly different challenge. Now contesting on a DMK ticket, Panneerselvam faces AIADMK’s VT Narayanasamy and TVK’s S Prakash in a triangular fight. His switch in allegiance has introduced a complex dynamic, with voters weighing his personal clout against longstanding party loyalties tied to the AIADMK’s 'two leaves' symbol.

Candidate Info: Panneerselvam O is the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) candidate contesting from Bodinayakanur (General) Assembly constituency for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. This male candidate is 75 years of age, according to the election affidavit submitted to the Election Commission of India.