Political Leaders in Chennai Escalate Verbal Assault on TVK Chief Vijay
In a significant political development in Chennai, leaders from the AIADMK and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have intensified their criticism of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) president and actor Vijay. The attacks come in response to Vijay's recent remarks targeting these parties, with accusations flying over corruption, leadership, and sensitivity.
AIADMK's D Jayakumar Questions Vijay's Integrity and Conduct
AIADMK organizing secretary D Jayakumar launched a multi-pronged assault on the actor-politician during a press interaction following floral tributes to former chief minister C N Annadurai on his 57th death anniversary. Jayakumar directly challenged Vijay's claims of being non-corrupt, alleging that the TVK operates with what he termed as "lottery funds." This pointed reference targeted TVK general secretary Aadhav Arjuna, who is the son-in-law of lottery baron Santiago Martin.
Jayakumar further criticized Vijay for what he described as insensitive behavior following the tragic Karur stampede that claimed 41 lives. "Vijay danced at TVK's anniversary event without any remorse for the death of 41 people in the Karur stampede," Jayakumar stated, questioning whether the actor had considered the feelings of grieving families who might see him celebrating.
Regarding Vijay's assertion that the upcoming assembly election represents a contest primarily between the DMK and TVK, Jayakumar dismissed this as political posturing. He suggested Vijay was attempting to position himself as a key challenger, "which is not true," and compared Vijay's statements to comedian Vadivelu's fictional claims of being a rowdy demanding police arrest. Jayakumar concluded by stating bluntly, "Vijay lacks leadership qualities."
AMMK's TTV Dhinakaran Criticizes Contradictory Stance
AMMK general secretary TTV Dhinakaran joined the criticism, specifically targeting Vijay's characterization of the previous AIADMK regime as "corrupt." Dhinakaran argued that if Vijay's objective is to remove the DMK from power, he should focus on that goal rather than attacking the AIADMK's past administration.
Dhinakaran highlighted what he sees as hypocrisy in Vijay's position, noting that the TVK leader has welcomed former AIADMK minister K A Sengottaiyan into his party. In a taunting remark, Dhinakaran suggested Vijay should "step out of his Panayur house and meet the people to understand the state's ground reality," implying the actor is disconnected from ordinary citizens' concerns.
BJP's K Annamalai Questions Substance of Vijay's Politics
Former BJP state president K Annamalai delivered perhaps the most comprehensive critique, responding to Vijay's metaphorical description of TVK as the "top engine" while dismissing other parties as "dubba" (useless) and "broken" engines in Tamil Nadu politics.
Annamalai turned the metaphor against Vijay, asking pointedly: "Is there even a key to start that engine, or a chassis to mount it on?" He expressed skepticism about the depth of Vijay's political vision, questioning: "What is his policy? What is his programme? What will he do for Tamil Nadu? What will he do that was not done so far?"
The BJP leader concluded that he sees neither substance nor clear direction in Vijay's political pronouncements, suggesting the actor-turned-politician lacks concrete plans for the state's development.
This coordinated criticism from multiple opposition parties indicates growing concern about Vijay's political ambitions and his TVK party's potential to disrupt traditional political equations in Tamil Nadu. The attacks focus on questioning both his personal integrity and his party's policy foundations, setting the stage for intensified political confrontations as election season approaches.
