TVK Leader Defends Vijay's Dual Constituency Candidacy, Cites Historical Precedent
Senior Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) leader Sengottaiyan has strongly defended party president Vijay's decision to contest from two assembly constituencies in the upcoming elections, dismissing suggestions that the move indicates a lack of confidence in electoral victory. The actor-politician is set to contest from both Trichy East and Perambur constituencies, a strategy that has drawn comparisons to historical political maneuvers in Tamil Nadu.
Historical Parallels Drawn with Former Chief Minister
Sengottaiyan drew a direct comparison between Vijay's dual constituency approach and the electoral strategy of former chief minister J Jayalalithaa. "Contesting from two constituencies in Tamil Nadu is not uncommon or unprecedented," Sengottaiyan stated emphatically. "Amma (Jayalalithaa) herself had contested from both Bargur and Kangayam constituencies back in 1991. This is a legitimate political strategy that has been employed by seasoned leaders in the past."
The TVK leader's comments come amid speculation about Vijay's electoral confidence, which he categorically rejected as baseless. According to the campaign schedule, Vijay is scheduled to file his nomination for the Trichy East constituency on Thursday morning, followed by an extensive campaign session in the Marakkadai area near Gandhi Market between 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM.
Response to Political Snubs and Security Concerns
Addressing the conspicuous absence of any mention of TVK in Chief Minister M.K. Stalin's recent speech in Trichy, where Stalin suggested the real contest was solely between DMK and AIADMK, Sengottaiyan offered a cryptic response. "You will see that for yourself in the field," he remarked, implying that electoral outcomes would demonstrate TVK's significance in the political landscape.
Regarding allegations that police authorities were creating obstacles for Vijay's campaign activities, Sengottaiyan provided reassurances about official cooperation. "As far as Trichy is concerned, both the returning officer and police officials have given us their full assurance that they will provide complete security and necessary support for our campaign activities," he confirmed.
Strict Guidelines Issued for Campaign Event
In a significant development, TVK has issued detailed guidelines for Vijay's upcoming campaign meeting in Trichy, emphasizing security and logistical considerations. Party general secretary 'Bussy' N. Anand released an official statement on Wednesday advising the general public to avoid attending the campaign meeting in person.
"Only those who have been officially approved through proper channels will be allowed to participate in the campaign event," Anand clarified. He strongly recommended that supporters watch the proceedings through social media platforms or live television broadcasts instead of attempting to attend physically.
The party has implemented specific restrictions regarding attendance demographics. Anand specifically urged people to refrain from bringing pregnant women, children, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and individuals in poor health to the campaign venue. Additionally, he instructed party workers and supporters not to follow Vijay's campaign vehicle using any mode of transport, including two-wheelers, to ensure orderly movement and security.
Despite these restrictions, the party has made comprehensive arrangements for the event. "Necessary basic facilities such as drinking water provisions and medical assistance have been properly arranged for the campaign event," Anand stated, indicating thorough preparation for the gathering.
Notably, this campaign holds special significance as Vijay began his maiden political campaign from Marakkadai in Trichy last year, marking a return to the location where his political journey initially gained momentum. The dual constituency strategy, combined with stringent security measures, reflects TVK's calculated approach to the upcoming electoral battle.
