‘Political bomb’ or political rhetoric? Examining Vijay’s alliance impact in TN

Chennai: Actor-turned-politician Vijay has intensified his campaign ahead of the Tamil Nadu Assembly election, but legal and political challenges are testing the early momentum of his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK).

Vijay delivered a high-energy campaign speech in Salem weeks before the election, targeting Chief Minister M. K. Stalin and the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK).

Addressing supporters, he accused the state government of corruption and abuse of power, questioning the transfer of ₹3,000 to women under a state welfare scheme as an “advance payment”. Framing the election as a moral choice, he asked voters whether they would choose “good” TVK or “evil” DMK.

“Do you remember my political bomb at the Vikravandi rally; offering to share power? It is now exploding recklessly in all the alliances.” Vijay said referring to his earlier proposal to share power with alliance partners.

Vijay has also highlighted his proposal to share power with allies, describing it as a “political bomb” that has reshaped alliance discussions in the state. He claimed the idea has unsettled the DMK leadership, which has maintained its current alliance structure. “For the DMK, the alliance is only to win and for all other things, such as governance, they will be on their own.” – Criticising the ruling party’s approach to coalition politics.

Legal challenges cloud campaign

Despite the energetic campaign, Vijay faces several legal complications that have added uncertainty to his political debut.

His latest film, Jana Nayagan (People’s Hero), was expected to play a key role in building public narrative ahead of the election. The film was submitted for certification in December 2025 and was reportedly recommended for a U/A 16+ certificate with suggested cuts. However, uncertainty over its release has affected its potential impact on campaign momentum.

Separately, the Madras High Court declined to grant him relief in a tax penalty matter, adding to his legal pressures.

Another significant development is the investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) into the stampede at a TVK rally in Karur in September 2025, in which 39 people lost their lives. The probe remains ongoing and continues to draw attention as the election approaches.

Alliance arithmetic and political positioning

TVK’s efforts to build alliances have reportedly faced delays, complicating its electoral calculations. Vijay has publicly advocated a power-sharing arrangement with allies, positioning it as a departure from traditional political structures in Tamil Nadu.

The DMK, however, has indicated that governance decisions remain within the leadership of the ruling party, reflecting a contrasting political approach.

Analysts note that Vijay’s entry has altered the state’s political discourse by introducing a new narrative centred on governance reform and alliance restructuring. At the same time, the combination of legal scrutiny and organisational challenges presents hurdles for a party contesting its first major election.

A campaign under scrutiny

As Tamil Nadu moves closer to the Assembly polls, Vijay’s campaign continues to draw large crowds and significant media attention. However, the parallel track of legal proceedings, certification issues related to Jana Nayagan, and the CBI probe into the Karur incident remain key factors that could influence the political landscape.
(With agency inputs)