V P Ramalingam: New Leader of BJP Puducherry

V P Ramalingam, a former Congress member who switched to BJP in 2021, has been elected unopposed as the leader of the BJP’s unit in Puducherry. The 63-year-old businessman succeeds S Selvaganapathy and was congratulated by party leaders. He was the sole candidate for the position.

V P Ramalingam, once a nominated legislator in the Puducherry Assembly, has taken over the reins of the BJP's unit in the union territory without contest. His unopposed election was confirmed at the party's headquarters, filling the vacancy left by S Selvaganapathy.

After the nomination deadline passed on June 29, with no other contenders, Ramalingam emerged as the sole candidate for the role. His background as a businessman and realtor, coupled with his technical diploma, complements his political acumen which began with Congress, later aligning with BJP in 2021.

Congratulatory messages poured in from BJP National General Secretary Tarun Chugh, Puducherry Home Minister A Namassivayam, and other party officials. Ramalingam's appointment follows his resignation from the Puducherry Assembly and precedes the induction of new nominated legislators by early July.

(With inputs from agencies.)