Popular Tamil actor and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay has launched his first state-wide political tour from Tiruchi, more than a year after forming the party in February 2024. The move comes after holding two state conferences in Vikravandi and Madurai, with Vijay now positioning himself as a potential gamechanger in the run-up to the 2026 elections.
In the morning, Vijay is scheduled to address supporters from a specially designed campaign bus at Marakkadai junction, a venue that once hosted frequent political gatherings but has since become a congested tri-junction in Tiruchi’s Old City. The location falls within the Tiruchi East Assembly constituency, an area with a sizeable minority population. Party insiders speculate that this constituency could be among the options for Vijay if he chooses to contest in the elections. The seat is currently represented by S. Inigo Irudhayaraj of Christhuva Nallenna Iyakkam, who won on the DMK ticket in 2021.
Police granted permission for the event under 23 conditions, a move that drew sharp criticism from the actor. Despite the restrictions, TVK workers from Tiruchi and neighbouring districts have been gathering at the venue since early morning, with many securing vantage points to catch a glimpse of their leader.