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DMK minister attacks TVK, accuses Vijay of leading puppet administration

Tamil Nadu's Minister for Youth Welfare and Sports has launched a sharp political offensive against actor-turned-politician Vijay's Tamil Makkal Needhi Maiam party, dismissing his government as lacking genuine autonomy.

LSN India · 24 August 2026

DMK minister attacks TVK, accuses Vijay of leading puppet administration

A senior minister in the DMK government has escalated political tensions in Tamil Nadu by leveling serious allegations against actor Vijay's nascent political outfit. The minister claimed that Vijay's Tamil Makkal Needhi Maiam party, which contested the recent state elections, operates as a front for external political interests rather than serving the people of the state independently.

The attack appears to form part of an intensifying political rivalry ahead of key electoral contests in the state. By characterizing the opposition party's leadership as figurehead governance, the minister sought to question the legitimacy and political autonomy of Vijay's political venture, which has rapidly emerged as a significant force in Tamil Nadu politics.

The remarks reflect deeper factional tensions within Tamil Nadu's political landscape, where the DMK government faces mounting scrutiny over its administration. The minister's comments are expected to trigger counter-responses from the TVK camp, further polarizing the state's political discourse as parties consolidate support bases ahead of the next electoral cycle.

Vijay, who transitioned from cinema to politics, has positioned his party as an alternative to traditional political establishments. The TVK's electoral performance and expanding organizational footprint have evidently prompted the ruling coalition to step up its rhetorical campaign against the emerging political player.