Actor Vijay takes the plunge: Double seat gamble shakes up Tamil Nadu polls

Releasing the first list of candidates from his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), Vijay urged voters to give the newly formed outfit a chance.

“Vote for the whistle. This is a whistle revolution election,” he said, referring to the party’s poll symbol. He also emphasized that voters should see no difference between him and other TVK candidates.

Tamil Nadu’s 234 Assembly constituencies will go to polls in a single phase on April 23.

The ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam is facing a multi-cornered contest, with the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam–Bharatiya Janata Party alliance aiming for a comeback, while TVK seeks to make a strong debut.

Other players include the PMK-led front and Naam Tamilar Katchi, which is contesting independently.

The Perambur and Trichy East seats are currently held by the DMK.

Calling the announcement more than just a candidate list, Vijay described his nominees as “protectors of the people” drawn from ordinary backgrounds.

He said TVK candidates do not carry the baggage of corruption, illegal activities, or intimidation of journalists, in an apparent swipe at rival parties.

Framing the election as a direct contest, Vijay said it would be a “two-cornered fight” between his “people’s alliance” and the alliance led by Chief Minister M. K. Stalin.

Among key contests, TVK has fielded VS Babu against Stalin in Kolathur, while Selvam, a former Congress leader, will take on Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin in Chepauk.

Party general secretary Aadhav Arjuna will contest from Villivakkam, and Sengottaiyan has been named the candidate from Gobichettipalayam.

Vijay also outlined his party’s promises, including a drug-free Tamil Nadu, financial assistance for unemployed youth above 29, and legislation to ensure transparency and accountability in government job recruitment.