Vijay’s TVK Has Given Tamil Nadu Politics a New Lease of Life - Annamalai

Tamil Nadu politician K. Annamalai has said that actor-turned-politician Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) has given a new lease of life to the state’s politics as the party completes 100 days in government. Speaking at the India Today Roundtable–Tamil Nadu, Annamalai, who recently left the BJP and has announced plans to launch a new political party, said TVK’s emergence had created fresh political momentum. However, he criticised the government for lacking a clear vision and accused established opposition parties of being unwilling to accept the change sought by voters.

Annamalai also indirectly criticised DMK leader and former Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin over his controversial remarks involving actor Trisha. He said some politicians were still following outdated practices of dragging women and mothers into political debates and making derogatory remarks. Annamalai further said it was unfortunate that newcomers to Tamil Nadu politics were being labelled as the “BJP’s B-team.” His comments come amid heightened political activity in the state and growing competition between established parties and emerging political forces.