In a high-voltage electoral battle shaping up in Tamil Nadu, sitting DMK MLA Inigo S Irudayaraj is taking on actor-turned-politician Vijay in the Trichy East constituency - a DMK stronghold with a significant Christian voter base.
Vijay, the chief of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), is set to file his nomination from Trichy East, while also contesting from Perambur in Chennai - both seats currently held by the DMK. The party has retained its sitting MLAs in both constituencies, signalling confidence despite the star challenger.
Speaking exclusively to NDTV, Irudayaraj struck a defiant note, dismissing any suggestion of being rattled by Vijay's entry into the fray. "I am not in panic. I am the real hero in my constituency, not a reel hero," he said, drawing a sharp contrast between grassroots work and cinematic popularity.
An industrialist and founder of the Chirituva Nallen a Iyakkankam (Christian Goodwill Movement), Irudayaraj won the 2021 Assembly election from Trichy East with a margin of 53,797 votes. Highlighting his track record, he said he has helped over 3,000 people secure house pattas and spent his entire Rs 45 lakh MLA salary on supporting the education of underprivileged students. He also underscored his outreach to minority institutions and communities.
On whether Vijay's entry - and his Christian identity - could split minority votes, Irudayaraj was categorical. "Christians will support DMK. M K Stalin protects Christians," he said. Taking a swipe at his rival, he added, "I am a practising Christian. I've never seen Vijay in church. He has never spoken against attacks on churches."
He also questioned Vijay's political positioning, alleging that while the actor claims to oppose the BJP, he has not been openly critical of it.
On the perception that Vijay enjoys strong traction among youth, including those from minority communities, Irudayaraj said the appeal cuts across demographics but may not translate into votes. "Youngsters from all faiths are with Vijay now, but they will understand later. There is no survey to suggest that only a minority of youth are backing him," he argued.
Responding to opposition criticism over rising crimes against women, the DMK leader maintained that such incidents occur everywhere but said Tamil Nadu has ensured swift arrests and stringent action against offenders, along with enhanced safety measures.
Interestingly, despite the buzz around Vijay's candidature, Irudayaraj identified the AIADMK nominee as his "main opponent," indicating that traditional party rivalries remain central to the contest.
On the large crowds at Vijay's public appearances, Irudayaraj acknowledged the actor's mass appeal but downplayed its electoral significance. "He is a great actor, no doubt. People gather to see him," he said.
The stakes in Trichy East were underlined on Wednesday when Chief Minister M K Stalin personally introduced Irudayaraj and other candidates, and walked alongside them - a show of strength and endorsement as the DMK braces for a high-profile contest where reel charisma meets political groundwork.
