Residents of Dr Radhakrishnan Nagar (R K Nagar) in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, are expressing their frustrations over deteriorating living conditions and a lack of political engagement since the passing of former Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa. Once a stronghold for the AIADMK party, the constituency has seen a decline in attention and resources, particularly following the controversial byelection won by T T V Dhinakaran in 2017. Local issues, including rampant drug abuse, inadequate public services, and poor infrastructure, have persisted, leading residents to feel neglected by political leaders. While the DMK has made some strides in addressing long-standing issues such as traffic and public facilities, many residents, including M Charles, an auto driver, lament that it is easier to buy drugs than groceries. As elections approach, candidates from various parties, including the DMK and AIADMK, are vying for votes, but local sentiments suggest a deep-seated skepticism about their promises. Many residents, like K Shanthi, a sanitary worker, express doubts about voting, citing years of neglect and unfulfilled commitments from elected officials.