After Trichi Rally Chaos, Actor Vijay's Party Sets Rules For His State Tour

Chennai:

Following last week's chaotic Trichy rally and subsequent Madras High Court observations on public property damage, actor Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) has established stringent safety protocols for its upcoming statewide campaign.

The comprehensive guidelines prohibit supporters from organizing public receptions for Vijay or following his convoy. The party has explicitly banned dangerous behaviors such as climbing lamp posts, electrical infrastructure, rooftops, vehicles, trees, or flex boards along highways. Firecracker usage has also been forbidden at these events.

TVK has once again recommended that vulnerable groups—pregnant women, children, elderly individuals, differently-abled persons, and those with health concerns—avoid attending physical rallies and instead follow the events through online platforms. The directive further cautions members against damaging public or private property or making potentially offensive statements.

During a hearing of TVK's petition against "tough and unfulfillable conditions" imposed by police, Justice N Sathish Kumar of the Madras High Court referenced the September 13 Tiruchi rally disruption, stating: "If something untoward had happened, who would take responsibility? As party president, Vijay ought to control the crowds."

The court inquired about compensation collection for damages and instructed the Tamil Nadu government to develop uniform guidelines applicable to all political parties, including provisions for deposits to cover potential damages. The state government must submit its report by September 24.

Vijay initiated his statewide tour in Tiruchi last Saturday, subsequently visiting Ariyalur the same day. Trichy experienced significant disruption as thousands of supporters joined his convoy from the airport to the Marakadai area—transforming a typically 20-minute journey into a nearly six-hour procession.

Recently, Vijay canceled his Perambalur program, and has now also withdrawn from his scheduled Mayiladuthurai appearance. His campaign continues tomorrow in Nagapattinam and Tiruvarur, with events scheduled through December, primarily on Saturdays with one Sunday exception.

Launching his political career while at the height of his acting success, Vijay aspires to replicate the electoral victories of Annadurai and MGR, who successfully defeated incumbent governments in 1967 and 1977 respectively.

Despite the substantial crowds at Vijay's events, both the ruling DMK and primary opposition AIADMK maintain they remain unconcerned, suggesting that attendance at rallies may not necessarily translate to electoral support.