BJP, CONGRESS BOTH FACE ANTI-INCUMBENCY IN PONDY

Unemployment has been a major issue in the constituency due to lack of industrial development and closure of several units

- DEBJANI DUTTA

WITH its complex geographical layout and multi-cultural population, spreads across three states, Puducherry has been in the spotlight since the announcement of the Lok Sabha polls from the dilemma of major political parties in deciding the right candidate acceptable in all four regions of the UT to travels plans of candidates in helicopters and flights. However, the issue of statehood raked up all party leaders, including V Vaithilingam (INC), A Namassivayam (BJP) and G Tamizh Vendan (AIADMK), is heating up.

Referred to as the mini India, Puducherry's four regions - Puducherry, Karaikal, Mahe and Yanam - are spread across three states, and the cultural and political influences of adjoining states are reflected in the voting pattern. Puducherry and Karaikal lie in Tamil Nadu, Mahe in Kerala and Yanam in Andhra Pradesh.

Even with all the differences, one constant problem ruling the minds of almost all the people in the region is the UT's statehood.

13 resolutions have been passed in this regard in the assembly.

As the elected government will be at the mercy of the union home ministry and the Lt. governor, with all major decisions requiring their approval, the issue gains momentum whenever there are conflicts between the chief minister and Lt. governor or even differences with officials or with the centre, including delay in processing files.