Vijay Weighs Chennai Constituencies as TVK Sees Massive Response to Candidate Call

Chennai, Feb 2026 : Actor-turned-politician Vijay appears to be increasingly inclined towards contesting the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections from Chennai, as his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), recorded an overwhelming response to its call for applications from prospective candidates. The surge in interest has added fresh momentum to the party’s preparations ahead of its electoral debut in the 2026 Assembly polls.

According to party sources, Vijay is currently weighing his options between the Velachery and Virugambakkam constituencies in Chennai. Earlier, he had also explored the possibility of contesting from Vikravandi in Villupuram district, Vedaranyam in Nagapattinam, and Vedasandur in Karur district. However, logistical and organisational considerations appear to be driving a shift in strategy.

Insiders revealed that the initial shortlist of constituencies was partly influenced by numerological and symbolic factors, including suggestions that the constituency name should begin with the letter ‘V’ or carry an electoral number starting with ‘9’. While these factors were taken into account at the exploratory stage, practical challenges associated with campaigning outside the state capital have prompted a reassessment.

Party leaders believe that contesting from Chennai would allow Vijay to manage his campaign more efficiently, given his strong presence and visibility in the city. A Chennai constituency is also seen as strategically important for strengthening TVK’s urban footprint and consolidating its appeal among city-based voters, including youth and first-time electors.

A final decision on Vijay’s constituency is expected after a detailed assessment of local political dynamics, voter demographics, and the party’s organisational strength in the shortlisted areas. Senior leaders are reportedly analysing booth-level data and feedback from grassroots workers before firming up the choice.

Meanwhile, TVK’s membership drive and candidate selection process have gained remarkable traction. The distribution of application forms began on Friday at the party’s headquarters in Panaiyur and witnessed an extraordinary turnout. Party officials said nearly 10,000 application forms were issued within just 90 minutes, underscoring the enthusiasm among party workers and supporters eager to contest under Vijay’s leadership.

To manage the rush and prevent overcrowding, TVK has announced that application forms will continue to be issued daily until February 14, between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Despite these measures, the influx of visitors has created challenges for residents in Panaiyur, a predominantly residential area.

Narrow roads in the locality have reportedly seen severe traffic congestion, with vehicles parked on both sides, hampering movement and disrupting daily life. Residents have expressed concerns over restricted access to homes and difficulties faced by domestic workers and emergency services.

Local welfare associations have approached the police, seeking improved crowd control and traffic management. While emphasising that they do not oppose political activity, residents have urged authorities to ensure that public mobilisation does not inconvenience neighbourhoods.

As TVK moves closer to its first electoral test, Vijay’s eventual choice of constituency is expected to play a key role in shaping the party’s campaign narrative and signalling its political priorities ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.

Team Maverick.