Tamil actor Vijay took a strong stand against Tamil Nadu's ruling DMK party in his debut political speech at the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam rally, claiming the state's resources were being exploited by one family through covert methods. The event today marked Vijay’s formal entry into politics and was attended by a large, enthusiastic crowd.
During his speech, Vijay accused the ruling party of “engaging in underground dealings” while criticizing others as “fascists” to deceive minorities. "Under the guise of a Dravidian model, they are deceiving the people," he said.
He also made a subtle reference to the BJP, stating, “Our true enemy is hate politics. Divisive forces and hatred are our adversaries. I pledge to uphold political decorum and dignity. This gathering is driven by a purpose, not by cash. There’s no turning back,” he added.
Addressing the crowd in Vikravandi, Villupuram district, Vijay stated, "There are those creating divisions within society. They are our primary enemies. The ones who exploit Tamil Nadu under the pretext of Dravidian principles, as if it’s a family business, are our next opponents. Ideologically, the BJP is our rival, while politically, the DMK is our foe."
His political debut comes amid a perceived gap in Tamil Nadu's political landscape, with the AIADMK still reeling from the passing of former Chief Minister and party leader, J Jayalalithaa.
Clarifying his ambitions, Vijay declared, “I’m not here as extra baggage; I aim to be a driving force in Tamil Nadu’s politics.” He admitted that he previously questioned the need to enter politics but had since realized it would be self-centered not to.
Vijay also announced that his party plans to contest all 234 assembly seats in the 2026 state elections and expressed openness to coalition arrangements. His party, he stated, would champion the ideals of Dravidian leader Periyar, advocating for social justice and women's empowerment. However, he clarified that his party would respect all faiths, saying, "We will not adopt Periyar’s stance on atheism; we oppose no one’s beliefs."
In addition to Periyar, Vijay identified Kamaraj, Dr. Ambedkar, freedom fighter Velu Nachiar, and revolutionary Anjalai Ammal as his party’s icons, emphasizing their contributions to social equity and progress.