"Vote for us," blares from the speakers in the autorickshaws, as Puducherry Pradesh Congress Committee chief Ve Vaithilingam walks through the residential areas of the Thattanchavadi constituency, seeking votes.
Vaithilingam, a 75-year-old former chief minister and now an MP, walks with his supporters, highlighting his decades of service to the people.
Vaithilingam, aware of Chief Minister N Rangasamy's influence, assures voters of better amenities and employment opportunities if elected. The contest in Thattanchavady is between Rangasamy and Vaithilingam, along with other candidates like S Karthikkumari from Naam Tamizhar Katchi.
As Vaithilingam's group moves into the Avvai Nagar neighborhood, a long-time resident, M Vazhvumuni, expresses his support for the Congress candidate. He says, "I am happy to see him. I know him well. He is simple and accessible, even when he was the chief minister."
Residents praise both Rangasamy and Vaithilingam, despite corruption allegations against Rangasamy's government. They also highlight the limited job opportunities and the fact that many people go to Chennai or Bengaluru for better prospects.
Vaithilingam discusses unemployment and the lack of jobs for young people, emphasizing that this situation is misleading.
Residents express satisfaction with the increased financial assistance, including a 2,500 rupee monthly allowance for women and a 20 kg rice subsidy for red-category families.
Vaithilingam also addresses the issue of infighting within the party, clarifying that former chief minister V Narayanasamy was not denied a seat. Narayanasamy withdrew from the race after DMK refused to give him the Nellithope constituency.
The Congress and DMK have divided the 30 seats, with Congress contesting in 16 and DMK in 14, with Uzhavarkari (Farmers Party) winning one seat.
Vaithilingam denies any rift between his party and the DMK, expressing confidence in winning the election and forming the government.
A resident, M Selvakumaran, criticizes the politicians for focusing on trivial issues, emphasizing the need for the state to gain statehood and reduce its dependence on the Centre.