Tamil Nadu Politics: Parties Race To Woo Vijay Ahead Of 2026 Assembly Elections

This special report examines the shifting political landscape in Tamil Nadu as major parties compete to align with actor-turned-politician Vijay. Following the launch of his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, the BJP has called for a consolidation of anti-DMK votes, with state chief K. Annamalai stating, 'When DMK has to go, the best way for DMK has to go is, all the anti-DMK votes gets consolidated.' While the Congress debates its future within the DMK alliance, Rahul Gandhi has shown solidarity with Vijay over the delayed release of his film 'Jananayakan'. The AIADMK has also hinted at potential new allies, yet a significant hurdle remains as Vijay reportedly insists on being the Chief Ministerial candidate in any potential coalition. The programme highlights how Vijay’s mass appeal and refusal to align with either the DMK or BJP currently position him as a decisive factor that could reshape the 2026 electoral battle in the state.