Tamil Nadu elections: Bodinayakanur - Voting for caste or casting a vote?

The battlefield will witness contest between Jayalalithaa loyalist and ex-chief minister O Panneerselvam and DMK's J Lakshmanan

This constituency in Theni district is set to see a tough battle between sitting MLA, former chief minister and Jayalalithaa loyalist, O Panneerselvam.  He is set to be challenged by DMK leader and ex-MLA from the same constituency, S Lakshmanan. In a battle between the two, caste politics may come into place as Dalit votes are critical here. 

Strengths 

Panneerselvam, who became the face of Tamil Nadu politics when Jayalalithaa was in prison, will have the government’s pro-poor initiatives to exhibit to his voter base. He had become famous for his teary-eyed oath for being the CM in the absence of Amma. He could also show his skills in terms of being the former CM of the state, thus showcasing his ability to lead a state. 

Lakshmanan, on the other hand, may look to disrupt these developments as caste votes come into play here. He has also been an MLA from the same constituency, which can also be used by him to highlight experience.

Weakness

Twin blows of caste votes and anti-incumbency factor could hurt the chances of Panneerselvam here. Traditionally, this has been a stronghold of the DMK. Dalit votes are 

mostly the key to success here and historically, it has favoured the DMK. It may not be a cakewalk for Panneerselvam.