In a fiery public address that set the tone for the upcoming electoral battle, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) president Vijay launched a blistering critique against the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) government on Thursday. Speaking at Vijayamangalam near Perundurai in Erode district, he declared the 2026 Tamil Nadu assembly election would be a decisive contest between what he termed as "theeya sakthi (evil force) DMK" and "thooya sakthi (pure force) TVK."
Invoking AIADMK Legacy to Attack DMK
In a significant rhetorical shift, Vijay invoked the legacy of late AIADMK stalwarts M G Ramachandran (MGR) and J Jayalalithaa, recalling that they repeatedly described the DMK as an "evil force." He admitted that he once wondered about the harshness of their characterization but now understands their perspective. "Today, I understand the reason, and I will repeat what they said," Vijay told the gathered crowd. This marked the first time he directly referenced Jayalalithaa in his speeches, having mentioned MGR on earlier occasions.
He continued to align himself with the legacy of MGR and former Chief Minister C N Annadurai, asserting that no one had the right to prevent him from associating with these iconic leaders. Simultaneously, he took an indirect swipe at the AIADMK, stating he would not criticize parties that were "not in the electoral battlefield." "I will not speak about those who are not even in the field. I cannot speak about you just because you want me to," he said, dismissing the principal opposition.
Training Guns on DMK's Governance Claims
Vijay focused his criticism squarely on the DMK's governance record. He challenged the ruling party's claims on universal housing and higher education accessibility. "When I say everyone should have a house, DMK claims housing has already been provided to all. Do all of you here own a house?" he questioned the audience, casting doubt on the government's achievements.
Similarly, he contested the state's assertion that higher education had reached every citizen. He also accused the DMK government of failing to expand the Avinashi–Athikadavu water project to benefit three districts, highlighting a key regional development issue.
Strategic Silence and Safety Concerns
Notably, unlike his recent speech in Puducherry, Vijay largely refrained from attacking the BJP. He made only one indirect reference, stating that TVK cadres were clear about their ideological enemies. He also chose not to comment on contemporary controversies like the Thiruparankundram Karthigai deepam row or proposed changes to MGNREGA.
This public meeting was Vijay's first full-fledged rally in Tamil Nadu after the Karur stampede incident. Authorities imposed strict conditions to ensure public safety, which were adhered to during the event. Demonstrating concern for safety, Vijay even paused his speech to caution a youth who attempted to climb a structure at the venue.
Vijay alleged a conspiracy to create a rift between him and his supporters but expressed unwavering confidence in their loyalty. "They forget that my bond with the people is more than 30 years old. Despite all conspiracies, the people will stand with me," he asserted.
The event was organized by former minister K A Sengottaiyan, whom Vijay praised as a major strength for TVK. In return, Sengottaiyan hailed Vijay as "Puratchi Thalapathy" and made the bold claim that TVK would win all 234 assembly seats in the 2026 elections, signaling the party's ambitious goals.
