Tamil Nadu polls: Vijay rejects ‘four-cornered’ contest, says fight is between TVK and DMK | India News
TVK chief Vijay dismissed claims of a four-cornered contest in the Tamil Nadu assembly elections on Sunday, insisting that the real fight was between his party and the ruling DMK, while outlining a governance model centered on technology and service delivery, PTI reported.Addressing a rally, Vijay said, “This is not a 4-corner or 40-corner fight. There are two sides: one is TVK, the other is DMK. Do you want an anti-people Stalinist government, or Vijay, who loves people? That’s this election.”The actor-politician also took a cycle ride to the venue as part of his campaign. A similar practice in Karaikudi had earlier gone awry, but the measures in Kanyakumari ensured better crowd management.Vijay unveiled a “21st century governance” vision, proposing India’s first Artificial Intelligence Ministry, with plans for an AI City and a dedicated AI University, with the sector expected to contribute USD 1.7 trillion to India by 2035.He proposed a “Tamil Nadu Citizen Privilege Card” to ensure doorstep delivery of welfare benefits without middlemen. “It is not like the story of Stalin sir; it is scientifically possible. Currently, the system is not ‘good governance’, it is ‘harassment’. Bribery does not stop at the official; a share goes to the minister. We will break this chain,” he said.The TVK chief said a “Right to Services Act” would be enacted within six months of assuming office and a “Vetri Tamil Nadu” super app would be announced to digitize public services like ration cards and driving licences.On the state’s finances, Vijay alleged that Tamil Nadu’s debt has crossed Rs 10.5 lakh crore, claiming that borrowing in the last five years is higher than in previous decades. “Every rupee spent on interest is a rupee stolen from your child’s education and your family’s healthcare,” he said.He also proposed a “People’s Forum” to enable digital participation, where petitions with 5 lakh verified signatures would be mandatory for discussion in the state assembly.Urging voters to support his party, Vijay called for a “whistle revolution”, referring to the party’s symbol. “I have come for you, with all the suffering, and I will never lie to you. Give your brother a chance,” she said.The campaign, however, has been marred by criticism over canceled meetings and scheduling confusion. Vijay canceled a scheduled speech in Karaikudi on April 11, disappointing supporters.Later, TVK general secretary N Anand clarified that the Kanyakumari rally would go ahead and urged supporters not to follow Vijay’s convoy to avoid crowds and accidents. He advised the vulnerable groups to actively participate.Vijay is scheduled to address a rally at Aranthangi in Pudukkottai on April 14, though the event is yet to be confirmed. Elections to the 234-member Tamil Nadu Assembly will be held on April 23.
