என். ரங்கசாமி

Chief Minister N Rangasamy, founder and leader of the All India NR Congress (AINRC), is contesting from two constituencies — Mangalam and Thattanchavady — in the 2026 Puducherry Assembly elections. A towering figure in the Union Territory’s politics, he heads the NDA government formed after the 2021 polls and remains central to the alliance’s campaign for re-election.

Rangasamy has served multiple terms as Chief Minister — from 2001 to 2008, 2011 to 2016, and since 2021 — making him the longest-serving CM of Puducherry with over 16 years in office. A Commerce graduate from Tagore Arts College and a law graduate from Dr. Ambedkar Government Law College, he began his political career with the Congress but parted ways in 2011 after internal rifts. He went on to launch the AINRC, leading it to a majority in its debut election.

Known for his low-key and accessible style, Rangasamy has cultivated a strong personal connect with voters, often seen travelling on a two-wheeler across Puducherry. While Mangalam is part of his current electoral strategy, Thattanchavady remains his traditional stronghold. The seat is witnessing a high-profile contest this time, with former chief minister and senior Congress leader V Vaithilingam also in the fray.

With the AINRC-BJP alliance currently holding power and the halfway mark in the 30-member Assembly at 16, Rangasamy’s dual candidature underscores both political caution and strategic positioning as he seeks another term at the helm.

Candidate Info: N. Rangasamy is the All India N.R. Congress (AINRC) candidate contesting from Mangalam (General) Assembly constituency for the 2026 Puducherry Assembly elections. This male candidate is 75 years of age, according to the election affidavit submitted to the Election Commission of India.