‘Know the difference between Centre and state!’ — Kanimozhi slams Vijay after Manipur comment

Chennai: In a sharp response to actor Vijay’s political commentary, DMK MP Kanimozhi has taken a veiled dig at the Tamil superstar, questioning his understanding of governance after he compared the Manipur violence to the situation in Tamil Nadu.

Speaking at a DMK event in Thoothukudi, she emphasised the importance of political experience when speaking on sensitive issues.

What did Vijay say about Tamil Nadu and Manipur?

Actor and political entrant Vijay had recently stated that his party would not align with either the BJP or DMK and criticised the ruling DMK for projects such as the proposed airport in Paranthur. He also made a controversial remark comparing the situation in Manipur with that in Tamil Nadu, drawing sharp reactions.

How did Kanimozhi respond?

Kanimozhi, speaking at a DMK gathering in Thoothukudi, did not name Vijay directly but referred to “some people” entering politics without understanding the difference between the Union government and state government. “To understand all this, you must know politics. You must know how to govern,” she said, adding that such people are using misinformation to gain votes.

Also read: TVK, Vijay slams BJP, rules out tie-up

What else did Kanimozhi say about BJP and AIADMK?

She also criticised the AIADMK for allying with the BJP, calling it a betrayal of Tamil Nadu. Kanimozhi alleged that the BJP, which struggles to handle the presence of 39 DMK MPs in Parliament, is now attempting to reduce Tamil Nadu's parliamentary representation.

Why is this clash significant?

Vijay, who recently announced he would stay equidistant from both major alliances in Tamil Nadu, is expected to play a bigger political role in the upcoming elections. His criticisms of both the DMK and BJP have made him a target for both sides, with Kanimozhi’s statement marking one of the most direct political rebuttals yet.

Kanimozhi’s indirect attack on Vijay underscores the growing tension between the rising actor-politician and the established Dravidian parties. As Tamil Nadu heads into a new political era, such verbal duels may shape the narrative ahead of the 2026 elections.