Tamil Nadu election 2026: Development gaps and heritage identity shape Jayankondam constituency’s electoral narrative

The Jayankondam Assembly constituency in Tamil Nadu is facing a keen electoral contest, with issues like tourism development, livelihood concerns, and infrastructure gaps expected to influence voter choices. Ka. So. Ka. Kannan, the DMK candidate from 2021, has been renominated for the upcoming election, while the PMK's G. Vaithilingam is also in the fray. The constituency boasts a rich historical legacy with sites like Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Brihadeeswarar Temple attracting international visitors but faces challenges such as underdeveloped tourism infrastructure and declining handloom industries. The constituency also grapples with issues of water scarcity, limited industrial development, and inadequate education facilities, prompting residents to call for long-term solutions to address these concerns.