Chennai: The Chennai Central constituency sees Sam Paul from the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) making his electoral debut against Dayanidhi Maran from the DMK. Maran has won from the same constituency thrice in the past.

Chennai Central Parliamentary constituency comprises six Assembly constituencies — Villivakkam, Egmore (SC), Harbour, Chepauk-Thiruvallikeni, Thousand Lights and Anna Nagar.  

On one end, the constituency sees one of the city’s richest localities such as the Central and Anna Nagar. On the other hand, slum pockets of the GH quarters and Aminjikarai are also present.

This part of the city sees a large Muslim population of about two lakh in areas such as Chepauk, Triplicane and Egmore. This apart, the constituency also has a sizeable Hindi and Urdu speaking population, apart from Telugus and Malayalis.  

The DMK saw a three-time victory and has once again placed its trust on Dayanidhi Maran. Word has it that several Christian pockets and churches have openly asked parishes to vote for the DMK-alliance.

Sam Paul is a first timer and is contesting from the PMK ticket. The PMK is in alliance with the AIADMK-led BJP alliance.

Kameela Nasser, also a first-time candidate, and wife of famous Tamil actor Nasser, is contesting from here. Kameela represents Kamal Haasan’s party Makkal Needhi Maiam. She could well be an alternate vote.