The BJP and the DMK engaged in heated exchanges, showcasing their strength in the recently declared 2024 Lok Sabha election outcomes. Notably, the Chennai South constituency in Tamil Nadu was closely monitored. Speculation hinted at the possibility of Tamil Nadu Bharatiya Janata Party State Secretary SG Suryah receiving the ticket, but it was ultimately granted to former Telangana Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan. Now that the elections are over, let’s take a look at the performance of the BJP in this VIP constituency.

Registered voters – 20,23,133

No. of votes polled – 10,96,026 (54.17% turnout)

It is pretty clear that the BJP has solidified its presence, at least starting with this constituency, demonstrating a notable increase in ground-level voter support compared to the DMK. It is noteworthy that Chennai is traditionally seen as a stronghold of the DMK. Detailed data from the South Chennai constituency illustrates this trend; out of 1939 booths, the BJP clinched the top position in 395 booths, secured second place in 799 booths, third place in 482 booths, and only fell to fourth place in 263 booths.

Assembly Constituency-wise Booth Ranking For South Chennai

Virugambakkam: Out of 270 booths, the BJP attained the top spot in 66 booths, second place in 118 booths, third place in 77 booths, and fourth place in a mere 9 booths.

Saidapet: Out of 254 booths, the BJP attained the top spot in 20 booths, second place in 129 booths, third place in 77 booths, and fourth place in a mere 28 booths.

T Nagar: Out of 229 booths, the BJP attained the top spot in 96 booths, second place in 75 booths, third place in 50 booths, and fourth place in a mere 8 booths.

Mylapore: Out of 262 booths, the BJP attained the top spot in 69 booths, second place in 77 booths, third place in 76 booths, and fourth place in a mere 40 booths.

Velachery: Out of 261 booths, the BJP attained the top spot in 80 booths, second place in 106 booths, third place in 57 booths, and fourth place in a mere 24 booths.

Sholinganallur: Out of 663 booths, the BJP attained the top spot in 64 booths, second place in 294 booths, third place in 151 booths, and fourth place in a mere 154 booths.

“Every brick tells a story”, there’s enormous effort & dedication by thousands of BJP #SouthChennai karyakartas to bring such a result.

Out of 1939 booths in #SouthChennai Lok Sabha Polls 2024 BJP stood

1st in 395 Booths
2nd in 799 Booths
3rd in 482 Booths
4th in 263 Booths. pic.twitter.com/91dfa24bTJ

— Dr.SG Suryah (@SuryahSG) June 12, 2024

Splitting the parliamentary constituency into assembly constituencies gives us a better picture of how the votes were polled. The South Chennai constituency comprises Virugambakkam, Saidapet, T Nagar, Mylapore, Velachery, and Sholinganallur Assembly constituencies. 

 Based on this data following the 2024 election results, the BJP is solidifying its stance and eyeing the 2026 state legislative assembly elections. Critics suggest these booths represent a significant increase in their support to sway the future election and one would need to secure victory in approximately 44-47% of the total booths, equating to 900+ booths. This seems achievable given that the BJP secured the second position in 799 booths.

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The post TNBJP Makes Inroads In DMK Bastion: 2024 Lok Sabha Polls Boost Party’s Prospects In South Chennai Constituency appeared first on The Commune.

South Chennai was one of the keenly watched constituencies in Tamil Nadu. While it was rumoured that Tamil Nadu Bharatiya Janata Party State Secretary SG Suryah could have been given the ticket, ultimately, it was given to former Telangana Governor Tamizhisai Sounderarajan.

Splitting the parliamentary constituency into Assembly constituencies gives us a better picture of how the votes were polled. The South Chennai constituency comprises Virugambakkam, Saidapet, T Nagar, Mylapore, Velachery, and Sholinganallur Assembly constituencies.

Here is the Assembly constituency-wise vote percentage for DMK, AIADMK, and BJP in South Chennai:

Virugambakkam: DMK – 45.5% BJP – 28.7% AIADMK – 15.1%

Saidapet: DMK – 53.5% BJP – 19.9% AIADMK – 16%

T Nagar: DMK – 41% BJP – 36.3% AIADMK – 14.4%

Mylapore: DMK – 46.7% BJP – 28% AIADMK – 15.3%

Velachery: DMK – 45.2% BJP – 30.4% AIADMK – 13.7%

Sholinganallur: DMK – 47.9% BJP – 22% AIADMK – 17.2%

Assembly constituency wise vote percentage for DMK, AIADMK, BJP in South Chennai:

Virugambakkam:

DMK – 45.5%
BJP – 28.7%
AIADMK – 15.1%

Saidapet:

DMK – 53.5%
BJP – 19.9%
AIADMK – 16%

T Nagar:

DMK – 41%
BJP – 36.3%
AIADMK – 14.4%

Mylapore:

DMK – 46.7%
BJP – 28%
AIADMK…

— Omjasvin M D (@omjasvinMD) June 5, 2024

Overall, BJP finished second in the South Chennai constituency with about 26.44% vote share compared to DMK’s 47% and AIADMK’s 15.69%

It did come as a surprise for many to see the BJP finishing second in this VIP constituency since Tamizhisai Sounderarajan’s name was announced quite late in the process. Interestingly, the ADMK candidate J Jayavardhan even lost his deposit in this seat.

Friends,

Here’s the #SouthChennai Assembly Segment Wise Polled Votes Data.

Once again thanks to the voters. Huge recognition to #BJP by the people bringing us 2nd in all the 6 MLA segments. #ADMK party came 3rd & forfeited its deposit here.

We will only build from… pic.twitter.com/9Uicnkn4ZV

— Dr.SG Suryah (@SuryahSG) June 5, 2024

According to members of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) stationed at various counting centers, the party’s performance was surprisingly strong in several areas traditionally considered to be strongholds of other parties. These areas included Jafferkhanpet, West Mambalam, Abhiramapuram, Alwarpet, Teynampet, Nandanam, Royapettah, the core regions of Mylapore, Velachery, Kodambakkam, Ashok Nagar, T Nagar, and across Sholinganallur.

In one particular polling booth in T Nagar, a BJP booth agent revealed to The New Indian Express that the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) party managed to secure only seven votes, while the “None of the Above” (NOTA) option garnered six votes.

Adding to the BJP’s achievements, the party secured the highest number of postal votes, outperforming both the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and the AIADMK in this category, further highlighting the party’s growing influence in the region.

Ward councillor of 135th Constituency (Member of Parliament Constituency No. 134) Uma Anandan shared details of her ward where BJP had garnered nearly 60% votes.

Total votes polled – 18,339 votes.

BJP – 10987 (59.92%)

DMK – 4272 (23.29%)

AIADMK – 1714 (9.35%)

*135 வது வட்டம்( மாமன்ற உறுப்பினர் வட்டம் எண்134) வாக்கு எண்ணிக்கை முடிவுகள் விபரம்:-*

*தென் சென்னை மக்களவை தொகுதி, தி. நகர் சட்டமன்றம்:-*my ward 134

*மொத்தம் பதிவான வாக்குகள் – 18,339 வாக்குகள்.*

*பா.ஜ.க. – 10987 (59.92%)*

*திமுக – 4272 (23.29%)*

*அதிமுக – 1714 (9.35%)*

— Uma anandan (@umaanandansays) June 5, 2024

It is noteworthy that Suryah had already set in motion the groundwork for the constituency – by interacting with the people, ensuring the symbol gets visibility by getting stickers pasted on autos, and volunteering, especially, during the floods in December 2023.

He also took several other initiatives like organising a “raja virundu” to honour hygiene workers and providing flood relief to the “narikaruvar” community last year.

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The post BJP Makes Surprising Inroads In South Chennai, Finishes Second – A Look At How The VIP Constituency Polled In LS Elections 2024 appeared first on The Commune.

It all started on April 17 (T-2), when Dr Tamilisai’s husband Dr. Soundararajan visited our apartment and one of her team members remarked that they need to find a “booth agent” for our booth at Saligramam that had voters from my apartment and few other apartments. One of the fellow residents (he was formerly a District level functionary of BJP at Namakkal) asked me, if I am game and I accepted with no idea of what it entails. He also said that the team will train me and I can go to the booth by around 9 am and be there till around 6:30-7:00 PM. Sounded like a regular day job (be there before NSE opens and be out after EOD processes and reconciliations by 6:00 PM).

The next day I was given the details of a functionary and was asked to reach out. As I do usually, I sent a WhatsApp message asking when should I call. No response from him. The post markets on Thursday called him to check and he shared the office location. When I went there, him and his team was sweating it out getting kits ready for the entire Assembly Segment. Handed over my photo etc., for them to prepare my credentials and went back at 11 pm to collect the kit, that was supposed to contain a part seal to affix on laquer, a writing pad, a notepad, writing instruments, a numbering sheet and the voter list.

In hindsight I should have checked the kit for its contents. Every booth were assigned two volunteers to relieve each other and alternate during the polls. My fellow volunteer at the booth had taken with him the voter list. The folks at the office were quite pressed for time and briefly explained my role and repeated a few times to collect the summary form (17Cin original. They were racing against time to find volunteers to some booths. Being the first timer it was overwhelming and I went in as I went into my Heat and Mass Transfer exam in 1997 (I aced it with 95%). Assumed everything would be there and came back and slept well. My biggest fear was that I will over sleep!

Now to the D day!

The alarm rang at 500. Snoozed the alarm and woke up at 530. Reached my assigned booth at 550. There were 5 booths in the polling station. The officers had already set up the EVM. Battery driven. Handed over my credentials and took up a seat. There were 6 other polling agents. 1 each for ADMK and DMK and 4 representing Independent candidates. My presence did surprise some of them. I was quite surprised that there were agents representing Independent and was asking myself how they managed to get 1600+ poll agents (answer to this later).

There was a mock poll to check EVM and it was tested, cleared and made ready for real polls. Just in time at 7:00 AM. The next 11 hours was exciting.

Voters were already queued up. The officers and agents were ready. There was delay of 20-30 secs to open. A senior gentlemen who was second in the queue, probably a retired person from Mumbai that was used to traveling by the Churchgate – Andheri 6:59 fast local became restless at 7:00.

Polling was brisk and fast. Our booth had the longest queue in the station. Looking at the nos and the pace, think the peak capacity is around 90-100 votes / hour / EVM, while Time & motion study may suggest a bit higher. It takes around 25-30 secs for recording a vote, from the Polling officer clearing you to vote to him clearing the next person. Cannot stuff 1000 ballots in 1 hour as in the past! Now you know the reason for the clamour of physical ballots.

At 8:30 AM, the fellow polling agents asked around for breakfast and one of the agents went out and got the food for everyone. Usually my first meal is at around 1 pm (intermittent fasting), hence did not have breakfast. And around 930 or so, the BJP candidate visited the booth to check if everything was in order. By 12 noon, the crowds started thinning down. Asked one of the fellow agents on how much they expect. His answer was – it was around 40-45% in 2021.

Post noon, the activity levels dropped further and the agents asked around on who wants what for lunch. One of the senior citizen volunteer from Tamil Nadu BJP came in to check and got me curd rice for lunch! Curd rice never felt this yummy! It was 2 pm and it became silent! By now, everyone was relaxed and were checking for trends in the other booths within the station. Ours was the highest – both in numbers and percentage (more on this later). One of the agents went out to vote at her polling station and came back to say the turnout at her booth was abysmal and people were just lazing around!

During the day, there was tea, nannari sarbath, butter milk (twice) and then a coffee at 4 pm – for everyone. The initial tension gave way to a friendly banter and they were pulling each other’s legs (Akka – Anna – Thambi etc). All of us started talking. Then I realized that all the agents live almost in the same street and they knew each other very well. Each of them were doing different tasks and they seem to work in groups tacitly (more on this later). One was marking Male / Female, one of them just ticking off names in booklet. They had different formats with carbon copies and it was brilliant. The formats were tearable booklets (Serial Number; Slip number, Male/ Female). They were quite fine sharing the formats.

Every hour or so, a Lead agent (more about him later) comes around to collect the tearble sheets and check the voting trend. While the main copy goes to the central data centre of the party, the carbon copy goes to the team waiting outside the station, where a second team checks the list to see, if there is some one that is “expected” to vote has not turned up. Apparently, he passes that info to someone in the locality to mobilise voters that have not turned up yet. This is in essence the election day machinery that works like a precision m/c. Looking at the numbers – 2 agents per booth makes it 10 agents per station (assuming 5 booths) + tacit coop with independents + party workers outside polling station on either side of road. So say around 25-30 per station per party. If you have 400 polling stations, it means around 10000-12000 or even more workers on polling day alone for a single major party in a single parliamentary constituency to cover 20 lakh voters.

This is the machinery that needs to be replicated! In a state that has 50% swing voters, you need this to push the voters to the booth! Back to the “Lead Agent” – He is a seasoned pro and had seen elections for 25-30 years and had stories from a 1990 elections when the booth had a repoll!. He is the most important person for a party inside the polling station – someone the rookie agent looks upto when there is an issue inside the booth. On the agent of independent candidates, maybe they may not be really independent candidates. If you are new party in the race, you have limited personnel, here is a #jugaad model. A constituency with ~20l voters in 6 assembly segments has approximately around 300-350 polling stations, with each station having around 5-6 booths for a total of around ~1600+/- booths. [I have no idea on the actuals]

You do not need 10000, you can do it with 4000 and mobile phones to find a voter’s booth & serial number. But they need to work a couple days longer. Sheer presence outside a polling station will comfort your supporter. While it will be nice to have the agents know the voters, it may not be required as I learnt a trick or two from the experienced pros. When the Polling Officer calls out a serial number and name, the “pro agent” calls out the name from the list at a random moment. If the voter does not respond to the name – it’s a red flag. Street smart!

A booth agent has the right to question the identity of the voter. One of the other party agents asked me “Enna sir ungala kandukkavae maatendraanga” [No one is taking care of you]. Now that’s a psy-war that can put one down! With me being an unknown person to the party folks and a last minute #upma agent, no one except folks from my apartment spoke to me (and I could not identify the party folks given that I parachuted in T-2, a morning huddle with fellow booth agents could have helped). So if you are a rookie agent, ensure you meet up the other volunteers before the polling starts in the morning.

While BJPs marketing, leadership of Shri Narendra Modi and charisma and aggression of Shri Annamalai has created the product and branding, election day management will be the equivalent of Sales & Distribution, the last mile connect to the voter to get them to vote. The difference between BJP outside Tamil Nadu and in Tamil Nadu is the last mile connect to voter. I hope Phase II for Annamalai is creating this connect! Build or Acquire the last mile connect. The grassroot volunteers were available post Jayalalithaa’s period looking for a leader and EPS has consolidated his hold over the party human resources between 2017 – 2021.

Now an electoral loss to EPS in 2024 will make that available in pockets and BJP should not hesitate to induct last mile functionaries (the Distributor/ Departmental store equivalent of FMCG). 2026 is going to be tougher as its not a vote for Modi, but will be a call for double-engine government in Tamil Nadu! When the polling ended – the head agent’s body language was not too great or he is a good poker player!

The way I see the turnout – while there is no big change in the numbers over 2019, the booth level data may tell you a different story. Candidates have that data and their body language will tell you!

Some notes for polling agents in future:

1. While its good to use tech and printers, nothing beats the muscle memory of writing it down. Write the name and s. no by hand in a booth slip. When the voter walks in – you may remember faster and better.

2. Ensure the booth slip has the image of the EVM unit with the name and Serial Number of the candidate. A few seniors struggled to locate! 3. Meet the fellow polling agents in the AM before the process starts

End of the day, the officials displayed the total votes, sealed with laquer and affixed the official seal, handed over the summary form. I submitted the form at the party office – took a few pens as souvenir and walked back home with a unique experience. When I reached home, my wife had a long list of things to do that I have been putting off citing lack of time due to work – If you can take out 15 hours on a Friday (NSE was open), you should have time to do this list too!

(This article is based on Vijayanand’s X post on the same)

Vijayanand Venkataraman is a Chartered Financial Analyst.

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The post A Hedge Fund Manager Becomes A BJP Booth Agent In Chennai For A Day, Here’s What He Finds appeared first on The Commune.

In South Chennai, a competitive race unfolds as BJP’s Tamilisai Soundararajan, AIADMK’s candidate Dr. J Jayavarthan, and the incumbent South Chennai MP Thamizhachi Thangapandian of the DMK contest against each other. The South Chennai Parliamentary Constituency comprises six constituencies: Virugambakkam, Saidapet, Thiagaraya Nagar, Mylapore, Velachery, and Sholinganallur. With the nomination process concluded, they have all embarked on roadshows across South Chennai, engaging with constituents, and garnering support for the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

Against this backdrop, Thamizhachi Thangapandian, vying for her second term from the DMK in the South Chennai constituency, faced a challenging situation. A commotion erupted in Mylapore as the public expressed their grievances, alleging that the MP was only visible during elections and remained oblivious to ongoing issues otherwise. The campaign vehicle of Thamizhachi Thangapandian on her 2nd day campaign was obstructed by agitated residents who bombarded her with questions. They accused her of neglecting the damaged Bharathidasan Nagar Housing Board despite assurances to rectify the situation over an extended period. Residents voiced their frustration, shouting, “Go, come next time, go away now,” while women questioned if her visits were merely to ascertain their well-being. Others angrily pointed out the significance of their votes, emphasizing the MP’s self-serving motives and questioning who suffered the consequences. The demand for the prompt repair of the damaged housing board intensified, causing a stir that prompted the MP to alter her course.

The housing units in Bharathidasan Nagar Housing Board were built over 50 years ago, and their present condition is in an extremely bad shape. The ceilings show significant wear and tear, with exposed cement and iron grills visible. The stairs are broken, and there are holes present in it. Residents recount an incident where a balcony collapsed, resulting in one resident losing three fingers. Similar concerns extend to the interiors, where ceilings occasionally collapse, posing significant risks to residents’ safety. Another female resident expressed her frustration, stating, “You’re claiming you don’t need the votes from this constituency. Do you really think you’ll win?” Thamizhachi replied affirmatively and left. Residents pointed out the lack of access to clean drinking water and the issue of contaminated water affecting them. Another resident criticized the DMK government, highlighting their failure to fulfill promises such as the construction of new housing boards after demolishing existing ones. They expressed concerns about potential displacement and the financial burden of finding alternative accommodation, particularly for low-income daily wage earners.

தென்சென்னையின் சிட்டிங் MP திமுகவை சேர்ந்த @ThamizhachiTh அவர்களை ஓட விட்ட மயிலாப்பூர் தொகுதி மக்கள்

இந்த மக்கள் எழுச்சி அனைத்து பகுதிகளுக்கும் வர வேண்டும்#Annamalai4Coimbatore #CovaiMPAnnamalai #ModiAgainIn2024 #MODIfiedTN #ModiKaParivar #annamalaiBJP pic.twitter.com/Km34G7EViP

— நாட்டாமை (WarRoom Commander ) (@Agmarksanghi) March 26, 2024

Previously Thangapandian said that over the past five years, she has been actively sharing her activities and contributions to the constituency through social media. Many of the issues highlighted during this period have been addressed, although some minor concerns still persist. Thangapandian assured that these remaining issues would also be addressed promptly. The statement was made in the presence of Mylapore Assembly member D. Velu, representatives from alliance parties, and members of the DMK during the vote collection event.

It can be said that Chennai serves as a bastion for the DMK, as the party consistently emerges victorious in this region. The DMK alliance secured victory in all constituencies within the Chennai city during the 2021 assembly elections. And the commotion by the residents is seen a setback.

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The post Incumbent South Chennai DMK MP Tamizhachi Thangapandian Turned Away By Residents Over Neglect And Disarray Of Their Homes appeared first on The Commune.

The recent announcement by the BJP regarding its candidate list for the upcoming elections brought to the fore an unexpected twist. Former Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan, stepping down from her position, declared her intention to contest the Lok Sabha elections, with South Chennai designated as her constituency. This decision marked a pivotal moment, as it intersected with the aspirations of BJP State Secretary, S.G. Suryah, who had been actively engaged in groundwork within the same constituency.

Suryah’s extensive groundwork and community engagement within South Chennai had positioned him as a formidable candidate, endorsed by the burgeoning support for BJP in the constituency. His dedication during times of crisis, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and floods, further solidified his standing as the face of BJP in the region.

According to sources, Suryah’s name was among the top choice of 3 probable names considered for South Chennai constituency. As soon as Tamilisai Soundararajan’s re-entry into activie politics was announced it was discussed that she may contest from Kanyakumari, Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli or South Chennai. However, the decision to allocate the South Chennai seat to Tamilisai came as a surprise to many, given Suryah’s ardent efforts and growing influence.

But what happened to SG Suryah happened to his late grandfather and BJP leader ‘Thirukovilur’ Sundaram.

According to The Hindu Tamil, during the 1977 Legislative Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu, the Kumari Anandan-led Gandhi Kamaraj National Congress Party was part of the broader Janata alliance. Kumari Ananthan is the father of Tamilisai Soundararajan.

SG Suryah’s grandfather ‘Thirukovilur’ Sundaram, a grassroots worker of the Sangh Parivar and a member of the Janata Sangh was poised for candidacy in the Rishivanthiyam constituency. He had begun his work in the constituency early on. Yet, fate took a different turn when Kumari Ananthan, representing the coalition party, fielded his own candidate, Jayachandran. Despite not being fielded as the candidate as expected, ‘Thirukovilur’ Sundaram worked tirelessly for his alliance party’s candidate.

As soon as Tamilisai Soundararajan was declared as the BJP’s South Chennai candidate Suryah released a video affirming his support and commitment to the party’s decision to field Tamizhisai Soundararajan.

He praised Dr.Tamizhisai Soundararajan, crediting her for providing him with opportunities, including his appointment as the Youth Wing leader and official spokesperson for the Tamil Nadu BJP.

He pledged to dedicate himself tirelessly leading up to the election date of 19 April 2024, specifically focusing on South Chennai. He said that he would campaign vigorously for Tamilisai Soundararajan to fulfill Prime Minister Modi’s target of securing 400 seats in Parliament this year.

Back in the day, ‘Thirukovilur’ Sundaram put party interest above self-interest and sacrificed it for father Kumari Ananthan. Today, his grandson SG Suryah has put party interest above self-interest for Kumari Ananthan’s daughter Tamilisai Soundararajan.

History repeats itself across generations albeit under different circumstances.

(With inputs from The Hindu Tamil)

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The post History Repeats: What Happened To BJP’s SG Suryah Happened To His Grandfather ‘Thirukovilur’ Sundaram 47 Years Ago appeared first on The Commune.

The BJP on Thursday named its candidates for nine Lok Sabha seats in Tamil Nadu, fielding former Telangana governor Tamilisai Soundararajan from Chennai South and party state unit chief K Annamalai from Coimbatore.

State Secretary of the Tamil Nadu Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), SG Suryah, speculated to be the frontrunner for the South Chennai MP seat, released a video affirming his support and commitment to the party’s decision to field Tamizhisai Soundararajan. In the video shared on his official X handle, he conveyed a heartfelt message to his supporters, garnering widespread appreciation and winning their loyalty.

He praised Dr.Tamizhisai Soundararajan, acknowledging her pivotal role during her tenure as the Tamil Nadu BJP head. Suryah credited her for providing him with opportunities, including his appointment as the Youth Wing leader and official spokesperson for the TN BJP. He expressed gratitude for the chances she afforded him, which contributed to his current standing.

He pledged to dedicate himself tirelessly for the next 28 days leading up to the election date of 19 April 2024, specifically focusing on South Chennai. He aims to campaign vigorously for the chosen candidate, ensuring Tamil Nadu contributes significantly to Prime Minister Modi’s target of securing 400 seats in parliament this year.

Highlighting the significance of the South Chennai seat, he listed eminent MPs who have represented the prestigious constituency in Parliament, including TT Krishnamachari, Nanjil Manoharan, DMK’s Annadurai, former President Venkatraman, Murasoli Maran, and Vyjayanti Mala.

Describing the South Chennai constituency as the heart of Chennai, Suryah highlighted its significance, boasting over 20 lakh voters. Humbly, he attributed all his efforts in the constituency over the years to the party’s welfare. Acknowledging the party high command’s decision-making prowess in selecting candidates during election time, he vowed to intensify his campaign efforts for Tamizhisai, surpassing even his hypothetical candidacy. He expressed gratitude to party workers for their unwavering support and urged them to ensure Tamizhisai’s victory in the election.

The caption for the video he shared read, “I’ve only two people in my life now. One is my mother & the other is my party #BJP! Yes, I expected the #SouthChennai ticket & was very open about it. But my party has other plans in store for me. I declined the offer to consider contesting from other seats because I want to groom ONE constituency & want to be identified with the same for next 4 to 5 decades. From tomorrow till April 17th I will be walking in all the streets of South Chennai seeking vote for our beloved Akka @DrTamilisaiGuv! Inviting all volunteers interested to work towards the goal #Tamilisai4SouthChennai! Let’s clinch South Chennai for BJP.”

I’ve only two people in my life now. One is my mother & the other is my party #BJP ! Yes, I expected the #SouthChennai ticket & was very open about it. But my party has other plans in store for me. I declined the offer to consider contesting from other seats because I want to… pic.twitter.com/6MpcRk2fN2

— Dr.SG Suryah (@SuryahSG) March 21, 2024

Netizens were disappointed that Suryah didn’t make it to the list as expected but vowed to vote for the BJP to ensure the party has some contribution from TN at the Parliament. 

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The post “If Not This Time, Next Time! My Party Knows How To Take Me Forward”: BJP Leader SG Suryah Wins People’s Hearts With Heartening Msg appeared first on The Commune.

The Old Mahabalipuram Road (OMR) in Chennai, known for its bustling nature with educational institutions, IT parks, and residential complexes, faces severe traffic congestion. With over 1.6 lakh vehicles and 3 lakh people commuting daily between Madhya Kailash and Tiruporur, the 20-km stretch encounters significant delays, especially during peak hours.

With many entertainment zones like malls, theatres, parks and other recreational activities coming along this region, it has made things worse. The recent congestion that happened during the AR Rahman’s Marakkuma Nenjam concert exposed how inadequate and encroached the road has become.

Frustrated residents report spending up to two hours traveling from Madhya Kailash to Siruseri.

Numerous calls for solutions have been made, emphasizing the lack of grid-road connectivity and delays in proposed flyovers and an elevated road.

Speaking on the problem, BJP leader SG Suryah said that implementing the Bus Rapid Transport System (BRTS) is the way to go to streamline vehicular traffic in the route.

“This system is already in there in cities like Surat, Ahemdabad, Delhi, Pune, etc. Even a smaller city like Amritsar has this system. I wonder what prevents those in power today to implement BRTS in a huge metropolitan city like Chennai which is much needed.”, Suryah said.

Suryah has also released a video of how the proposed project would look like and its impact for people residing in South Chennai.

The dedicated bus corridor would run from Saidapet to Sholinganallur, covering a 22-km stretch with stops at important points like – Madhya Kailash, Thiruvanmiyur, Perungudi, Thoraipakkam.

The implementation of BRTS, according to estimates, is expected to significantly reduce travel time from 1.5 hours to just 30 minutes and decrease private vehicle usage by 43%. This reduction in traffic congestion will have broader environmental benefits by lowering emissions.

Suryah emphasizes the impact on residents during the sweltering summer months, noting that the air-conditioned buses with well-ventilated stops will provide a comfortable travel experience

The BJP leader also said “It’s not just about congestion. Chennai gets extremely hot in summer and people get baked under the sun in sweltering heat. We hear about so many people suffering sun stroke. An ordinary middle class working person travels in that heat to go to their work place to earn a decent living. I can’t even fathom the pressure they through in summers. Since these buses will be airconditioned and the stops will have good ventilation, people will feel comfortable to travel.”

“I think the people of this city deserve better.”, Suryah said.

#தென்சென்னை முக்கிய #OMR சாலையில் நெரிசலை கட்டுப்படுத்த #BRTS திட்டம் மட்டுமே ஒரு தீர்வு. பிரதமர் ஸ்ரீ @narendramodi அவர்கள் தலைமையில், அண்ணன் @annamalai_k அவர்கள் வழிகாட்டுதலில் #தென்சென்னை #OMR சாலையில் BRTS போன்ற பல்வேறு திட்டங்கள் செயல்படுத்தப்படும்.#BRTS is the only… pic.twitter.com/W2AuPIsNfH

— Dr.SG Suryah (@SuryahSG) February 13, 2024

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The post TN BJP Leader SG Suryah Proposes Bus Rapid Transport System To Alleviate OMR’s Traffic Woes appeared first on The Commune.

BJP Tamil Nadu State Secretary Dr. SG Suryah has been undertaking various relief works ever since Cyclone Michaung struck Chennai in the first week of December 2023.

An MP aspirant wishing to contest from the South Chennai constituency for the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Suryah has converted his home in Thiruvanmiyur virtually into a relief camp coordinating and distributing relief materials along with RSS’ Sevabharathi organization.

A team of volunteers from the BJP and RSS’s Sevabharathi established kitchens at various locations, often utilizing temple facilities in the vicinity. In some places, the BJP leader established ‘Modi Kitchens’ to provide food to those whose home were inundated and were suffering without essentials.

As part of his relief efforts, Suryah is focusing on areas where the DMK government has failed to reach.

On 14 December 2023, Suryah along with volunteers from RSS’ Sevabharathi distributed food kits and other household articles in the Narikuravar colony of Thiruvanmiyur.

There are around 84 households in the colony which is home to close to a 100 people. Most of the households were completely or partially damaged due to the flood waters which inundated the colony. They had to stay put at a Corporation school for a few days until the waters receded.

The residents complained to Dr. Suryah that they don’t have a stormwater drain or sewage drain which could’ve prevented flooding.

Suryah assured them that he will take up their concerns with the respective authorities and ensure that their grievances are addressed.

The toilets that have been constructed for them by the government are unusable and have been turned into a store room to stuff unwanted materials.

Suryah told The Commune that they come to know of their pitiable condition when he visited the colony a few days back to provide food packets.

Narikuravar Colony, #Thiruvanmiyur, #Velachery, #SouthChennai . Drainage work & roads are 2 long pending demands @chennaicorp !#தென்சென்னை #வேளச்சேரி திருவான்மியூர் நரிக்குறவர் காலனி. அனைத்து வீடுகளும் காலி. பாதாள சாக்கடை & ரோடு வேண்டும் என்பதே இரண்டு கோரிக்கை. வட்டம் – 173. pic.twitter.com/wynUnXP4PQ

— Dr.SG Suryah (@SuryahSG) December 8, 2023

In order to provide them with immediate relief, Suryah provided them with a food kit (10 kg rice, dal, rava, oil, sugar, jaggery) along with vessels, sleeping mats and other household articles.

https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1735339641866469777

#தென்சென்னை தொகுதியில் தொடர்கிறது மக்கள் பணி..#SouthChennai field work as a voice of common man to continue…

நன்றி – @NewsTamilTV24x7 pic.twitter.com/4blbNb36o1

— Dr.SG Suryah (@SuryahSG) December 16, 2023

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The post BJP TN’s SG Suryah Provides Relief To Flood-Affected Narikuravar Community In South Chennai appeared first on The Commune.

Accusations have emerged regarding the Tamil Nadu government’s flood relief materials allegedly being distributed selectively to individuals affiliated with the ruling DMK party in South Chennai.

The controversy has drawn sharp criticism from the State Secretary of the Tamil Nadu Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), SG Suryah, who vehemently condemned the reported bias.

In a press statement, SG Suryah expressed deep concern over the alleged discriminatory distribution of essential supplies meant for flood-affected residents.

In his statement he stated, “Heavy rainfall since 4 December 2023, has inundated Tamil Nadu, particularly Chennai, owing to the Michaung cyclone. Residents, grappling with flooding and water stagnation on Chennai streets, are openly questioning the efficacy of the DMK government in addressing the crisis, exacerbated by the allocation of ₹4000 crore. The dire situation has left people without drinking water, electricity, and food, reminiscent of the famine periods in the pre-independence era.

He said that in the OMR region of South Chennai, specifically between Okkiyamedu and Buckingham Canal in the 198th ward, Karapakkam, more than 3200 houses of the nearly 7000 houses have been adversely affected by the prolonged floods, with water taking nearly four days to recede.

“BJP Ward Councillor Leo Sundaram, representing the affected area, has raised serious concerns about the distribution of flood relief materials. Sundaram alleges that relief items were exclusively provided to DMK supporters, highlighting a significant disparity in assistance. Sundaram stated, “Officers intended to distribute relief materials through me, but DMK supporters intervened, securing the supplies for those aligned with their party. When questioned, officers provided no satisfactory response. This discriminatory approach is evident simply because I belong to a different political party.”, he said in his press release.

Dr. SG Suryah, has condemned the reported act of discrimination by the DMK, emphasizing the unjust denial of relief materials based on individuals’ political affiliations.

He asked whether it is fair to deprive distressed people of relief because of political affiliation.

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The post TN BJP’s SG Suryah Says Only Those Who Are Affiliated To DMK Are Being Given Govt Relief Material appeared first on The Commune.