With the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections approaching, alliance equations are rapidly becoming the centre of political attention. Actor Vijay’s political outfit, the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), remains under intense scrutiny as speculation mounts over its possible partners.
Vijay’s Political Campaign Begins — Then Halted by Stampede Tragedy
Vijay launched the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam earlier this year and began his statewide campaign on September 13 in Tiruchirappalli, interacting directly with the public.
However, on September 27, while campaigning in Karur, a stampede claimed 41 lives, triggering widespread shock and criticism across the country. The tragedy forced TVK to suspend all political activities, and both the party and Vijay faced severe public backlash.
The actor later met the families of the victims in Mamallapuram to offer condolences. He then held a general council meeting, where he sharply criticised both the DMK and BJP, stating that the upcoming election would be a direct contest between the DMK and TVK. Around the same time, rumours emerged that TVK was exploring an alliance with the AIADMK.
Alliance Speculation Intensifies as Elections Approach
As Tamil Nadu heads toward the 2026 polls, political observers are closely watching how TVK will position itself. Even before polling dates are announced, speculation has intensified over whether Vijay’s party will join hands with established players like the AIADMK or Congress or contest independently.
TVK Denies Congress Talks
Responding to swirling rumours that Vijay was in discussions with Rahul Gandhi for a possible alliance, TVK joint general secretary CTR Nirmal Kumar dismissed the reports as “completely false.”
“Unnecessary rumours are being spread. If any such talks take place, we will formally announce them,” he said during a statewide protest against alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter rolls.
When questioned about the AIADMK, he said TVK saw “no need” to engage in talks with a party currently out of power. He added that TVK follows a principled stand and would not ally with any party associated with the BJP.
Nirmal Kumar further stated that if Congress ever joined a TVK alliance, the party would insist on accepting Vijay as the Chief Ministerial candidate – an unlikely scenario given Congress’ existing commitments.
Congress Reaffirms Its Place In DMK Bloc
Amid the speculation, Congress leaders reiterated that the party would remain in the DMK-led alliance. Senior leaders clarified there was “not even a 1% chance” of aligning with BJP-associated parties or forming a separate front with TVK.
Sources within the Congress confirmed that during a meeting in Delhi on 18 November 2025, party president Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi had categorically instructed the Tamil Nadu unit to continue in the DMK alliance.
With the national leadership affirming its stand, Congress appears to have closed the door on joining forces with TVK. Analysts say this clarity significantly shapes pre-election dynamics, leaving TVK to decide between contesting alone or seeking new allies.
TVK’s Next Move Under Watch
As the state inches toward the 2026 polls, all eyes are now on Vijay’s party. Whether TVK opts for independence or forges new partnerships will play a crucial role in determining Tamil Nadu’s electoral landscape in the months ahead.
(Source: Samayam Tamil)
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