Tamil Nadu Elections – IJK Leader Questions TVK’s Poll Readiness
Tamil Nadu Elections – The political temperature in Tamil Nadu continues to rise as parties intensify preparations for the upcoming Assembly elections, with fresh remarks adding to the evolving debate over alliances and leadership.
The National President of the IJK Party and Chairman of SRM Group, Ravi Pachamuthu, on Wednesday expressed doubts about whether actor-turned-politician Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) is equipped to confront established political forces in the state. Speaking to ANI, Pachamuthu raised questions about the party’s preparedness to face major contenders such as the DMK, AIADMK and the NDA alliance.
IJK Reaffirms Commitment to NDA
Pachamuthu reiterated that the IJK Party has remained aligned with the National Democratic Alliance for more than a decade. He noted that the association dates back to the early tenure of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and confirmed that the partnership will continue into the forthcoming elections.
According to him, groundwork for the polls is already underway. He indicated that party workers have begun organizing at the grassroots level, focusing on strategy and voter outreach as the election season approaches.
Welfare Schemes and Self-Reliance
Addressing the ongoing political discourse around welfare measures and free schemes, Pachamuthu clarified his party’s position. He stated that while the IJK is not opposed to welfare initiatives, long-term development should focus on enabling individuals to become financially independent.
He emphasized that citizens should be empowered to achieve economic stability rather than rely solely on government assistance. In his view, sustainable growth comes when people can afford necessities through their own earnings.
Distinction Between Fans and Political Cadres
Turning his attention to Vijay’s political entry, Pachamuthu highlighted what he sees as a key difference between celebrity popularity and political organization. Vijay, a prominent figure in Tamil cinema, recently launched the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam and has begun mobilizing supporters across the state.
Pachamuthu acknowledged that Vijay commands a substantial fan base but suggested that fan support does not automatically translate into a structured political cadre. Drawing from his own years of experience in public life, he remarked that electoral politics requires resilience, discipline and the ability to confront complex challenges.
He further questioned whether TVK workers would be prepared to engage in direct contests against seasoned parties such as the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, and the NDA bloc.
Vijay Positions TVK as Main Challenger
Pachamuthu’s comments come shortly after Vijay addressed a public rally in Vellore, where he projected the upcoming Assembly election as a direct contest between his party and the ruling establishment. At the event, Vijay framed the political battle as one between himself and Chief Minister M.K. Stalin.
During his speech, Vijay criticized the DMK-led government, alleging shortcomings in governance and questioning its administrative model. His remarks drew attention across political circles, with leaders from various parties responding in the days that followed.
Intensifying Political Climate in Tamil Nadu
With elections drawing nearer, the political landscape in Tamil Nadu is witnessing sharper exchanges between established parties and emerging players. The DMK currently heads the state government, while the AIADMK and the NDA remain significant forces in the opposition space.
The entry of a high-profile actor like Vijay has introduced a new dynamic into the electoral narrative. However, seasoned leaders such as Pachamuthu have signaled that translating public enthusiasm into electoral success will require organizational depth and sustained political engagement.
As campaign strategies evolve and alliances consolidate, the coming months are expected to shape the contours of a closely watched contest in Tamil Nadu politics.