Senior Congress leader and Erode East MLA EVKS Elangovan passed away at a private hospital in Chennai today. The seasoned politician and influential leader leaves behind a rich legacy of political service and contributions to Tamil Nadu and Indian politics.
Born on December 21, 1948, in Erode District, Elangovan was the son of E.V.K. Sampath and grandson of Krishnasamy, the brother of social reformer Periyar E.V. Ramasamy. He hailed from a family deeply rooted in the Dravidian movement and progressive ideals, shaping his political journey and leadership style.
Elangovan served in various pivotal roles throughout his career:
Member of Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly
Represented Sathyamangalam constituency in 1984.
Won the Erode East Assembly seat in 2023, following the untimely demise of his son, Thirumagan Evera.
Member of Parliament
Represented Gobichettipalayam Lok Sabha constituency from 2004 to 2009.
Served as Union Textiles Minister under Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh’s government, contributing significantly to the sector’s development.
Tamil Nadu Congress Committee (TNCC) President
Held the TNCC President position after his appointment by Sonia Gandhi in 2014, succeeding B.S. Gnanadesikan.
Elangovan was instrumental in steering the Congress party in Tamil Nadu, championing its ideology and representing the interests of the people.
In the 2009 Lok Sabha elections, Elangovan lost to A. Ganeshamurthi of MDMK in Erode. During the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, he contested from Theni and faced a defeat to O.P. Ravindranath Kumar, the son of O. Panneerselvam. He was the only UPA candidate to lose in Tamil Nadu that year.
Despite these electoral setbacks, his resilience and dedication to public service earned him respect across party lines.
The death of his son, Thirumagan Evera, in 2023, was a personal loss that deeply affected him. However, Elangovan contested and won the by-election for the Erode East constituency, carrying forward his son’s vision for the region.
EVKS Elangovan’s demise marks the end of an era in Tamil Nadu politics. Known for his eloquence, strong ideological stance, and commitment to the Congress party, he leaves behind a void that will be hard to fill.