The first woman mayor, J. Illamathi, a business administration graduate, is a familiar face among a majority of the residents in the Dindigul corporation. Having served as a councillor for a term earlier, she is aware of the issues.
Out of a total of 48 members in the corporation council, she enjoys the backing of 38 councillors from her own party, DMK, and of five councillors of the allies and an Independent. The Opposition AIADMK has just five members.
Speaking to The Hindu at her office, where a long stream of visitors and petitioners were present, Ms. Illamathi said she was very happy occupying the post as she was the first woman to head the civic body. Thanking Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and other senior leaders for giving her the opportunity to serve people, she said she would accord priority to cleanliness and the safety of women. Drinking water has been a major issue, too.
