Rangasamy sets record for fifth term as Puducherry CM; NDA edges toward majority

N. Rangasamy is set to make history with a fifth term as chief minister after winning the Thattanchavady constituency, as the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) moved closer to forming the government in the Union Territory.

According to figures released by the Election Commission of India by Monday afternoon, Rangasamy secured 10,024 votes, defeating E. Vinayagam, who polled 5,583 votes. The victory margin stood at 4,441 votes.

In the 30-member Assembly, the NDA had either won or was leading in 12 seats, short of the majority mark of 16 at the time of reporting.

The alliance in Puducherry is led by Rangasamy’s All India N.R. Congress (AINRC), along with partners Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK).

Rangasamy, 75, has built a reputation for accessible leadership and welfare-focused governance, factors widely seen as key to his continued electoral success. His earlier tenures emphasized institutional development, including the establishment of medical and healthcare facilities and improvements in regional connectivity.

Originally a member of the Indian National Congress, Rangasamy first became chief minister in 2001 and again in 2006. After stepping down in 2008 amid internal party differences, he founded the AINRC in 2011 and returned to power the same year with alliance support. He later aligned with the NDA in 2021.

His administrations have rolled out several welfare initiatives, including subsidized housing programs, education support schemes, and nutrition programs for students. Infrastructure expansion and slum rehabilitation projects have also contributed to his political base across communities, including the Vanniyar group.

Despite the electoral gains, Rangasamy faces immediate challenges in managing coalition dynamics. Friction within the NDA—particularly concerns from BJP leaders over representation and influence—could complicate cabinet formation.

The inclusion of newer allies, such as the Latchiya Jananayaga Katchi, has also been a point of contention within the alliance, with the AINRC wary of potential political and reputational risks.

As the final results take shape, attention is likely to shift to portfolio allocation and alliance management, which could define the stability of Rangasamy’s anticipated fifth term.