Vijay Releases TVK Manifesto for 2026 Tamil Nadu Elections, Criticizes Dravidian Parties

Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) president C. Joseph Vijay unveiled his party’s election manifesto in Chennai on April 16, 2026, marking the actor-politician’s electoral debut. Vijay emphasized that TVK’s promises are practical and implementable, contrasting them with what he described as unrealistic pledges by major Dravidian parties, the DMK and AIADMK. He criticized these rivals for making similar populist offers, such as cash transfers and appliance giveaways, accusing them of deceiving voters. The TVK manifesto, rooted in the principles of Thirukkural, includes commitments to establish 100 special residential schools, provide health insurance coverage of ₹25 lakh per family, and offer a monthly pension of ₹3,000 to vulnerable groups. Additional promises include free electricity units, increased wages for anganwadi workers, and agricultural aid. Vijay, contesting from Perambur and Tiruchi East, appealed to supporters to trust his genuine approach and treat TVK candidates as family members. He also encouraged supporters to draw the party’s whistle symbol as kolam. This event highlights TVK’s entry into Tamil Nadu politics as an independent contender against established regional powers.