Women workers employed under the 100-day job scheme in Madhavaram have reportedly been avoiding the area’s sitting MLA when he visits, leaving local DMK functionaries surprised.
The MLA, Sudharsanam, is contesting for a third term and is now running on the DMK ticket after joining from the MDMK. Party circles describe him as someone known for keeping campaign expenses low.
According to accounts from the locality, he often stops to meet women working along roadsides under the 100-day scheme and sanitation workers. He is said to hand out a ₹5 packet of Marie biscuits from his car and spend long periods listening to their personal and family difficulties.
However, the workers allege that their grievances are not addressed, and that the prolonged conversations disrupt their work. As a result, when his vehicle is seen approaching, some women reportedly move into nearby bushes or even into a pond area to appear busy until he leaves.
During campaign visits, workers are said to warn each other that the “Marie biscuit brother” is coming and quickly disperse. Even when party functionaries assure them of special attention if they join the campaign, the women reportedly refuse, saying they know what to expect.
