Actor-turned-politician and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay found himself embroiled in a major controversy after a book launch event, “Ambedkar: A Leader for All,” held in Chennai to commemorate Dr BR Ambedkar on his death anniversary on December 6, 2024, featured an incorrect map of India, omitting Aksai Chin.
Organized by Vikatan Publications and Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) Deputy General Secretary Aadhav Arjuna, the event gained public attention for displaying an incorrect map of India in a video presentation. The map omitted the Aksai Chin region, sparking widespread condemnation for its inaccuracy and insensitivity. Actor-turned-politician and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay, who attended the event, also faced criticism as the incident drew outrage from political commentators and the public, demanding accountability from the organizers over the map.
சென்னையில் தவெக தலைவர் விஜய் பங்கேற்ற
எல்லோருக்குமான தலைவர் புத்தக வெளியீட்டு
விழாவில் இந்தியாவின் தவறான வரைபடம்
காட்டப்பட்டதால் சர்ச்சைஅக்சாய் சின் பிரதேசம் விடுபட்ட இந்திய வரைபடம் காணோளியில் இடம்பெற்றதால் பரபரப்பு
தேசத்தின் அரசியல் சாசனத்தை வழங்கிய
அம்பேத்கர் விழாவில் தவறான… pic.twitter.com/dCA1Qh4kme— Tamil Janam (@TamilJanamNews) December 6, 2024
The book “Ambedkar: A Leader for All” features 20 interviews and 45 articles exploring Ambedkar’s life and legacy. Initially, there were expectations that both VCK Chief Thol Thirumavalavan and TVK leader Vijay would share the stage. However, Thirumavalavan withdrew from the event, reportedly under pressure from the ruling DMK, leading to speculation about intra-party dynamics.
During his speech at the event, Vijay launched a scathing critique of ruling DMK government, accusing them of failing to uphold Ambedkar’s vision for social justice. He lamented the plight of Dalits, stating, “If Ambedkar were alive today, he would hang his head in shame,” pointing to the continued marginalization of Dalit communities.
Vijay specifically criticized the Tamil Nadu government for its inaction in the Vengaivayal incident, where the drinking water meant for a Dalit community in Pudukottai district was reportedly contaminated in a caste-based hate crime. “The government (DMK) does not seem to have taken any action,” he remarked, emphasizing the need for a government that prioritizes people’s welfare over alliance politics.
In a pointed remark aimed at the ruling DMK’s coalition with VCK, Vijay accused the government of being overly reliant on “alliance arithmetic” while neglecting the welfare of citizens. He predicted that such governments would face the consequences in the 2026 state elections.
Vijay’s fiery speech resonated with the audience, drawing cheers and applause as he called for a political transformation rooted in justice and equality, aligning with Ambedkar’s ideals. However, the map controversy overshadowed the event’s intended focus, sparking national debate about accountability in representing India’s territorial integrity.
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