Tamil Nadu Elections 2026: TVK Announces Candidate List; Vijay To Contest From Perambur And Trichy East

In a major political development, actor and Vijay has announced his entry into electoral politics for the first time. The chief of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) will contest the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections from two constituencies-Perambur in Chennai and Tiruchirappalli East.

Making the announcement at a meeting with party members, Vijay confirmed that he would be on the ballot from both seats, marking a significant step in his political journey.

TVK Releases Candidate List

Alongside his own candidature, Vijay also unveiled the party's candidate list. Several key members of the party's core team have been fielded from important constituencies.

Some prominent names include:

• N Anand
• Adhav Arjuna
• R Arunraaj
• C T R Nirmal Kumar
• K A Sengkottaiyan

These leaders will contest from seats such as T Nagar, Villivakkam, Gobichettipalayam, and Thirupparankundram.

Vijay emphasised that the candidates were carefully chosen based on trust and their connection with the people.

"Direct Fight Between TVK and DMK"

Positioning the election as a clear contest, Vijay said the battle would be directly between his party and the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), led by Chief Minister M. K. Stalin.

He described the upcoming polls as a "two-sided fight" between his "people's alliance" and what he called a "patch-up alliance" led by the DMK.

Vijay also urged his candidates to take a pledge against corruption, stating that the party aims to bring change in governance.

Focus on Youth and Development

Unveiling his party's agenda, Vijay laid strong emphasis on youth welfare and development. He presented a set of "guarantees" aimed at addressing key issues faced by young people.

Key promises include:

• A drug-free Tamil Nadu
• Collateral-free education loans up to ₹20 lakh from Class 12 to PhD
• Transparent government recruitment processes
• Unemployment assistance
• Internship opportunities and support for startups and entrepreneurship

He said the goal is to create opportunities and ensure a better future for the younger generation.

Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections 2026: Key Details

Tamil Nadu is set to vote in a single phase on April 23, 2026, with counting scheduled for May 4. The current Assembly's term will end on May 10.

The main contest is expected between:

• The DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance (SPA), which includes Congress and other parties
• The NDA bloc led by AIADMK, along with BJP and its allies

With Vijay's entry, the political landscape has become more dynamic, adding a new dimension to the upcoming elections.

A New Chapter in Tamil Nadu Politics

Vijay's decision to contest from two constituencies and field a fresh set of candidates signals his party's serious intent in the elections. His focus on youth-centric policies and anti-corruption messaging aims to connect with voters across the state.

As campaigning gains momentum, all eyes will be on how the debutant political leader performs in what is shaping up to be a highly competitive election.