Thalapathy Vijay’s TVK to conduct first state conference on October 27, to reveal ideological leaders

Tamizhaga Vetri Kazhagam leader and actor Vijay said his party’s first conference will be conducted in October at Vikravandi. In a statement, the actor-politician said the party’s principles and ideological leaders will be revealed on the day.

In a statement, the TVK leader said the first state conference of the party will be held on October 27, at Vikravandi in Villupuram district. He added the party’s ideology, ideological leaders and action plans in sync with the party’s ideology will be announced on the day. Called Vetri Kolgai Mannadu, the party will reveal its political ambitions on October 27, it said.

Vijay, fondly called by “Thalapathy” by his fans, announced his political plunge in February and the party was granted formal registration by Election Commission of India recently. Vijay unveiled his party’s flag and symbol on August 22 and released the flag anthem. The red and yellow flag features two elephants and a 'vakai flower' (Albizia Lebbeck) surrounded by stars at the centre.

The actor recently faced ire from certain quarters after he paid tributes to social reformer Periyar on his birth anniversary.

The TVK had already started its groundwork and the party had established its infrastructure in some of the districts in Tamil Nadu. District and town secretaries have been appointed by the party's high command. His fan clubs have slowly turned into party machinery. His fan club had 75,000 units with more than 18 lakh members. 

Vijay’s political entry unlike his predecessors Rajinikanth or Kamal is expected to change the political landscape in Tamil Nadu which is deeply rooted in Dravidian ideology. In February, when he launched his party, Vijay’s statement laid emphasis on a commitment to transparency, non-partisan governance and adherence to the values of Tamil culture and the Indian Constitution. His statement also highlighted the issue of corruption and divisive politics. 

Reportedly, Vijay’s party is trying to rope in seniors from the Dravidian majors in Tamil Nadu, who have a deep understanding of the ground in the state. Sources in Vijay’s team say that there are a few retired bureaucrats working with him now, in terms of party registration and drafting the basic rulebook for the party, he is yet to find an experienced political operator to build his party.