Trichy district is set to gain a stronger presence in the Rajya Sabha, with DMK’s Trichy Siva and Congress nominee Christopher Tilak expected to be elected. They would join sitting DMK Rajya Sabha MP, poet Rajathi—popularly known as Salma—taking the district’s tally to three.
India’s Parliament has two Houses: the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. While Lok Sabha members are elected directly by voters, Rajya Sabha members are chosen by state MLAs based on the seats allotted to each state.
Tamil Nadu has 39 Lok Sabha seats and 18 Rajya Sabha seats. The term of six Rajya Sabha MPs from the state is set to end on July 24, and the election for these vacancies is scheduled for March 16.
Siva, contesting for a fifth term, said after filing his nomination in Chennai that the strength of the BJP and its allies is rising in the Rajya Sabha, increasing the responsibility of opposition parties. He alleged that the BJP-led alliance’s policies run counter to the federal principle.
After filing his nomination, Christopher Tilak said he may not yet be widely known among the public in Tamil Nadu, but would soon be recognised through his work. Congress state president Selvaperunthagai said the party has confidence in Tilak’s abilities, citing his handling of challenging responsibilities in places such as Manipur.
