News Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu’s First BJP MLA C Velayutham Passes Away

May 8, 2024
The Commune

C Velayutham, a renowned social activist and the first South India BJP MLA, passed away early today at the age of 73. Velayutham achieved a historic milestone by winning the Padmanabhapuram assembly constituency in the 1996 Tamil Nadu state elections, thereby becoming the inaugural BJP member to secure a seat in the state assembly in South India. His victory over DMK’s Bala Janathipathy was highly significant.

Despite the BJP only gaining one seat in the 1996 elections, Velayutham’s win marked a momentous occasion for the party’s foothold in Tamil Nadu. Even though subsequent elections saw the BJP attain the second and third positions in 2001 and 2006, respectively, Velayutham’s pioneering achievement remained a notable landmark in the state’s political landscape.

Before his electoral triumph, Velayutham served as an independent member of the Tamil Nadu assembly in 1984. Even after his term, he continued his social endeavors and remained dedicated to serving the community. His deep-rooted commitment to social work and his affiliation with the Hindu Munnani were defining aspects of his life, having been a devout Swayamsevak since the age of 13.

Following the Mandaikadu clashes, Velayutham joined the Hindu Munnani and contested the 1989 assembly polls, representing the Hindu minority community. Despite facing various challenges, including financial constraints, Velayutham’s perseverance led him to sell a portion of his agricultural land to finance his election campaign. His determination bore fruit when he emerged victorious in the 1996 elections.

Expressing condolences over Velayutham’s demise, BJP National President JP Nadda acknowledged his significant contributions to both the party and society. In a post on social media platform X, Nadda praised Velayutham’s commitment and dedication, highlighting his pivotal role in advancing BJP politics in Tamil Nadu. Nadda stated, “Deeply saddened by the passing away of former MLA and social worker C. Velayutham ji. He was the first-ever assembly candidate elected to the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly from the BJP, representing the Padmanabhapuram constituency in the 1996 elections. His commitment and dedication to the party and to society will always be remembered. My deepest condolences to his family and supporters in this difficult time. Om Shanti!”

Similarly, K Annamalai, the Tamilnadu BJP President remembered Velayutham, “The news of the passing away of Mr. C. Velayuthan, the first legislator of Tamil Nadu BJP and one of the pioneers of the party, is deeply saddening. He was devoted to the development of the party, a principled person and a hard worker. He who sowed hope for the growth of BJP in Tamil Nadu. My deepest condolences to the bereaved family and relatives of Sir Velayuthan. May his soul rest in feet of lord. Om Shanti!”

The last rites are scheduled to take place in his hometown of Keezkaruppukkodu village on 9 May 2024.

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