Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections 2026: Actor-turned-politician Vijay has announced that he will contest the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections from two constituencies Perambur and Trichy East.
His party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), is making its first appearance in these elections.
While revealing the list of candidates, Vijay appealed to voters to support his party and give it an opportunity. "Vote for whistle, it’s a whistle revolution election," he said, referring to TVK's election symbol. He also urged people not to treat him differently from other party candidates, emphasizing that all candidates represent the same vision.
Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections to Be Held in Single Phase
Voting for all 234 constituencies in Tamil Nadu will take place in a single phase on April 23. The ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) is facing a tough contest with multiple parties in the fray.
The NDA alliance, which includes All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam and Bharatiya Janata Party, is aiming for a comeback. Meanwhile, TVK is preparing for a strong debut. Another front includes the PMK led by S Ramadoss along with the party linked to V. K. Sasikala, a close associate of former Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa.
In addition, Naam Tamilar Katchi, led by Seeman, is contesting the elections independently.
Seats Chosen by Vijay Currently Held by DMK For Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections
The two constituencies selected by Vijay, Perambur and Trichy East which are currently represented by DMK leaders. RD Sekar is the MLA from Perambur, while Inigo S Irudayaraj represents Trichy East.
Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections 2026: Vijay Calls Candidates 'Protectors of the People'
Vijay said the event was not just about announcing candidates but about presenting leaders who would serve the public. "This is a meeting to announce the names of the protectors of the people. Our candidates are from ordinary backgrounds; they are not heavyweights. Our MLAs should not have experience of looting and illegal mining, or of assaulting journalists who question them. A DMK candidate has corruption charges against him. He went to jail and came back. You all think who he is," he said.
He added that he had personally worked hard to select the candidates and described the election as a direct contest. "This election is a two-cornered fight between our people’s alliance and MK Stalin Sir’s alliance," he said.
Promises Made by Vijay Ahead of Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections 2026
Vijay outlined several promises, including making Tamil Nadu drug-free, providing monthly financial support to those who remain unemployed after the age of 29, and introducing a law to ensure transparency and accountability in government job recruitment.
Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections 2026: Key Candidates Fielded by TVK
TVK has fielded several candidates in key constituencies. VS Babu will contest against Chief Minister M. K. Stalin in Kolathur. Selvam, a former Congress leader who recently joined TVK, will contest against Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin in Chepauk. The party's general secretary Aadhav Arjuna will contest from Villivakkam, while Sengottaiyan has been fielded from Gobichettipalayam.

