Key Points

The TVK chief highlighted that the Nagapattinam port ranked "second" in Tamil Nadu for fish exports, but lacked modern facilities and processing factories. He also pointed out the poor infrastructure in the district, where many families continued to live in thatched houses.

"We are not like the DMK government that writes a long letter about the fishermen's issue and then remains silent. Finding a solution to the fishermen's problem is one of our key agendas," TVK chief said.

He stressed that the lives of fishermen were important, but added that "the dreams and lives of the Eelam Tamils are equally important to us."

"I had spoken at the Madurai conference about the reasons behind Sri Lankan navy attacks on our fishermen and the possible solutions. It is my duty to stand with fishermen," he added.

He further reminded the gathering that 14 years ago, he had held a public meeting in Nagapattinam condemning attacks on fishermen, underlining his continued commitment to their cause.

In his address, Vijay also expressed solidarity with Eelam Tamils across the world. "At the same time, our umbilical-cord kin, the Eelam Tamils, whether they are in Sri Lanka or anywhere else in the world, are suffering after losing a leader (LTTE Leader Prabhakaran) who showed them motherly affection. It is our duty to raise our voice for them," he said.

On September 13, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam(TVK) Chief Vijay launched his state-wide campaign from Tiruchirappalli. TVK Chief Vijay delivered a fiery speech questioning the ruling DMK over its 'unfulfilled' electoral promises mentioned in thier 2021 election manifesto.

He accused the ruling party of ignoring people's real issues, pointing to recent controversies. "A kidney theft took place in a hospital owned by a DMK member. Women are allowed free travel in buses, but are humiliated with the term 'free, free' being mocked at them. The promise of Rs 1,000 for all women has not been fulfilled, and those who received it are showcased for publicity," he charged.

Vijay assured that TVK would focus on education, electricity, healthcare, women's safety, and legal reforms without compromise. "We will only promise what is practically possible, not empty words," he asserted, adding that victory for TVK was certain.

Vijay intends to present his party, TVK, as a third front in Tamil Nadu politics, an alternative to both the ruling DMK and the opposition AIADMK. The TVK will be contesting the Tamil Nadu assembly elections for the first time since its founding in 2024. The state elections are scheduled to be held in 2026.

- ANI