In the lead-up to the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, prominent political figures are grabbing headlines with their high-decibel campaigns, while an independent candidate and Padma Shri awardee in the Tiruchirappalli Lok Sabha constituency is actively engaging in campaigning. This candidate is interacting with vegetable vendors, crafting flower garlands, and participating in vegetable sales as part of their campaign strategy.
S Damodaran, 62, from Tiruchirappalli, is contesting this election under the gas stove symbol and was observed canvassing for votes at the city’s Gandhi Market among people and vegetable vendors.
Speaking to ANI about his career, Mr. Damodaran stated, “I am an Independent candidate from the Trichy constituency. I am a native of Trichy city and have served as an Associate Service volunteer at the sanitation center for over 40 years. I began my career at 21 and received the Padma Shree award at the age of 60 from then President of India Ram Nath Kovind for my contributions to the sanitation sector.”
Mr. Damodaran elaborated on his career, highlighting his extensive work in the sanitation center as an Associate Service volunteer for over 40 years. He began his career at 21 and received the Padma Shree award at 60 from then-President of India Ram Nath Kovind for his contributions to providing access to water and sanitation facilities in rural and urban areas.
#WATCH | Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu: Independent candidate from Trichy Lok Sabha seat Padma Shri S Damodaran indulges in making flower garland and sells vegetables as the part of Election Campaign pic.twitter.com/9iARbrat1O
— ANI (@ANI) April 11, 2024
The candidate turns into a vegetable seller
He mentioned initiating his social service at 21 during the tenure of Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and shared that he had served under nine prime ministers throughout his life. Mr. Damodaran emphasized working under all centrally sponsored rural sanitation programs and ensuring every village became a model village.
Discussing his unique campaign approach, Mr. Damodaran noted starting his campaign in the Gandhi Market area, part of his parliamentary constituency, and receiving a positive response wherever he went.
Regarding key projects for Tiruchirappalli, Mr. Damodaran highlighted the need to transform Trichy into a clean and green city and address infrastructure needs such as a Ring Road and flyovers at crucial locations.
The central government honored Mr. Damodaran with the Padma Shri, recognizing his distinguished service in social work, particularly in promoting sanitation in villages and slums in South India.
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