Actor turned politician and Tamilaga Vettri Kazagham (TVK) chief Vijay on Monday launched a sharp critique at the Dravida Munnetra Kazagham (DMK) led Tamil Nadu government, accusing them of running a "fake model" administration and also mocked them as "stand-up comedy."

Speaking at a public rally in Vellore, Vijay asserted that the political contest in Tamil Nadu is essentially between TVK and DMK, declaring, “Tamil Nadu is Vijay, Vijay is Tamil Nadu.” He drew inspiration from the iconic words of former Assam Chief Minister DK Baroah, who famously said, “India is Indira, Indira is India,” in praise of the enduring legacy of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

Vijay added, “In the Tamil Nadu elections, the battle is between me and Stalin Sir. Today, a fake, stand-up comedy-style government is in power. This election promises to be historic—a true miracle for the people.”

At a rally, TVK leader Vijay emphasized that his party would remain independent and not be swayed by outside influences. “We won’t be deceived by anyone,” he said, underlining the need for political vigilance and self-reliance.

He reaffirmed TVK’s commitment to its electoral promises. “TVK will honor its commitments without deviation,” he stated, assuring supporters of the party’s dedication to its stated goals.

Vijay also made it clear that neither he nor his party could be influenced by money or inducements. “No one can buy us. Our vote is for the whistle,” he added, referring to TVK’s party symbol.

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Urging voters to back the whistle, he criticized Chief Minister MK Stalin for making false promises and pledged that, once in power, he would personally meet citizens across every district.

“MK Stalin is misleading the people with fake promises. After TVK forms the government, I will meet everyone personally. This election is for the people of Tamil Nadu and against the DMK government. Our vote, our rights—no one can take them away. Vote for the whistle. We will never let anyone take our votes,” Vijay said.

Tamil Nadu’s assembly elections are slated for the first half of this year, with the primary contest between the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance (SPA) and the AIADMK-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). The SPA includes Congress, DMDK, and is negotiating with MMK and MDMK, while the NDA brings together AIADMK, BJP, PMK, and other allies.

Having retired from his acting career ahead of the elections, Vijay is making his political debut with TVK.