Daijiworld Media Network - Chennai

Chennai, Mar 29: Actor-turned-politician Vijay on Sunday announced candidates for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, positioning his party Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) as a people-centric alternative focused on clean governance.

Vijay, who will contest from Trichy East and Perambur in Chennai, urged voters to support the party’s “Whistle” symbol, calling for a decisive shift away from corruption and misuse of public funds.

“I urge the people to vote for TVK and our ‘Whistle’ symbol. We are here only for the people, and always for the people,” he said.

Making a direct pitch to voters, Vijay assured thathis party would prioritise transparency and integrity if elected. “We will never misuse public money or indulge in corruption. We will ensure women’s safety, create a drug-free Tamil Nadu, and maintain strict law and order,” he said, seeking “one opportunity” from the electorate.

At the event, Vijay described his candidates as “true protectors of the people,” emphasising that they come from ordinary backgrounds and understand grassroots issues.

“Our candidates are not people with great wealth or power. They understand the struggles of the common man,” he said, adding that each nominee was personally selected after careful evaluation.

He also stressed that an MLA must go beyond experience, highlighting the importance of integrity and responsibility. “An MLA is not just a representative; they are the voice of the people and protectors of the Assembly,” he said.

Vijay’s announcement marks a significant step in his party’s electoral push, as he takes on established players including the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam led by Chief Minister M K Stalin.

With a campaign centred on governance reforms, welfare measures and youth-focused policies, TVK’s entry is expected to intensify the political contest in Tamil Nadu ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.