Ahead of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) president and actor Vijay’s “Makkal Sandhippu” program in Karur, reports have emerged that the ruling DMK is executing a counterstrategy to reduce participation and weaken the impact of the event.
According to sources, DMK functionaries in Karur have begun distributing gifts such as mobile phones, T-shirts, and pants to lure TVK workers and supporters towards their side. The party is also planning to use traffic diversion measures (“take diversion as in the Vivek film”) to reroute vehicles carrying Vijay supporters into the city, thereby preventing large gatherings at his meetings.
Vijay’s state-wide outreach campaign, originally scheduled to conclude on 20 December 2025, has now been extended until 2 February 2026, due to what TVK alleges as delays in official permissions by the ruling party. His fiery speeches during the tour have drawn sharp reactions from ministers, creating a ripple effect within DMK circles.
As part of tomorrow’s Karur visit, Vijay is expected to address the public in multiple locations. However, DMK leaders, led by former minister V. Senthil Balaji, are determined to demonstrate Karur as a DMK stronghold. Recently, Balaji organized a massive DMK anniversary celebration in the district, projecting the region as the party’s fortress. Sources said he is now spearheading efforts to ensure Vijay’s event does not succeed.
TVK functionaries admitted they are struggling to counter the DMK’s strategy of offering material benefits to woo supporters. Reports indicate that DMK cadres have been instructed not to display TVK administrators’ names on banners, but only the district secretary’s photo, as part of internal campaign discipline.
For Vijay’s public meetings, TVK had shortlisted four venues in Karur viz, Karur Lighthouse Corner, Vengamedu MGR Statue, Erode Velusamipuram, and 80 Feet Road.
However, police authorities have only granted permission for one location, Velusamipuram citing security and logistical concerns.
In addition, roadworks within Karur city is reportedly being used as a pretext to divert traffic. Vehicles carrying Vijay supporters are expected to be redirected away from the main city routes using “take diversion” measures, limiting their ability to converge at the permitted venue.
Party insiders said these measures are part of DMK’s broader plan to undercut Vijay’s campaign momentum in Karur, where his growing popularity is seen as a direct challenge to the ruling party.
(With inputs from Dinamalar)
Subscribe to our channels on Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.