BJP’s Strategic Outreach to Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK)
In the wake of the tragic Karur stampede, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has initiated contact with South Indian cinema icon Vijay’s political outfit, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). Sources reveal the BJP aims to harness Vijay’s extensive fan following to strengthen its position ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu assembly elections. A senior BJP official assured the TVK leadership that Vijay would receive support if targeted unfairly by the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK).
BJP’s Support and Political Calculations
The BJP has conveyed to TVK its intention to challenge the DMK firmly and advised Vijay to maintain patience amid the ongoing crisis following the stampede incident. Vijay himself has expressed gratitude to various political figures who extended their support during this difficult period. This outreach highlights the BJP’s strategy to consolidate opposition votes in Tamil Nadu, a state traditionally dominated by DMK and AIADMK.
National Parties Eyeing Tamil Nadu’s Political Landscape
Beyond the BJP, the Indian National Congress has also reportedly reached out to the TVK, signaling national parties’ growing interest in making inroads in Tamil Nadu politics. With the DMK and AIADMK’s longstanding dominance, the emergence of Vijay’s party as a potential game-changer is attracting attention.
Evolving Political Dynamics Post-Stampede
Vijay’s initial plan to contest the 2026 elections independently through the TVK may now be subject to change due to these recent political developments. The BJP believes that anti-incumbency sentiments against the DMK could work in favor of opposition alliances, with the TVK playing a pivotal role in mobilizing voter support.
Political Repercussions of the Karur Stampede
The stampede on September 27, which resulted in 41 fatalities, triggered a swift response from the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA), which dispatched a delegation to Karur. The BJP has accused the DMK government of mismanagement that led to the tragedy and argued that the TVK should not bear sole responsibility.
While the DMK places full blame on Vijay’s party, other political groups, including the NDA, have criticized the DMK, emphasizing its accountability as the ruling administration. The BJP’s stance underlines its effort to protect the TVK’s political viability while spotlighting government lapses.
Vijay’s Rising Political Influence
The BJP’s internal analysis suggests that Vijay’s charisma and eloquence could sway significant voter segments, positioning TVK as a formidable force in Tamil Nadu politics. The party also predicts a potential voter shift away from smaller regional players such as DMDK and NTK, favoring TVK’s growing momentum.
Alliance Considerations and Future Prospects
Despite these opportunities, the BJP is cautious not to jeopardize its alliance with AIADMK, a crucial partner with established organizational strength in the state. Combining AIADMK’s grassroots reach with Vijay’s popularity could prove decisive for the NDA’s ambitions in southern India.
Details of the Karur Rally Tragedy
The fatal stampede occurred during a TVK rally where approximately 27,000 attendees gathered, nearly triple the anticipated crowd of 10,000. Police attributed part of the disaster to Vijay’s seven-hour delay. Meanwhile, the TVK accused police lathi-charge for triggering the stampede. In response, the Madras High Court has formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the incident thoroughly.
