Actor Vijay, now head of the Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) political party, is holding his first public meeting in Puducherry on December 9, 2025, since the tragic stampede in Karur. The event is drawing significant attention due to heightened safety concerns and strict regulations imposed by the Puducherry police.
Following the Karur incident, where 41 people died, authorities are taking no chances. The police have capped attendance at 5,000 people and are only allowing entry through QR code passes. Originally, the TVK had requested permission for a roadshow, but this was denied to ensure better crowd control. The public meeting is scheduled to take place between 10 am and 12 pm at the Uppalam Expo Ground. Vijay is expected to address the crowd from a van.
Stringent measures are in place to manage logistics and ensure public safety. Parking will be restricted to the Puducherry Marina, the rear side of the sports stadium, and the old port area. Organizers are responsible for providing essential amenities such as drinking water, toilet facilities, ambulances, first-aid medical teams, and fire engines at the venue. The police have reiterated that only a controlled public meeting is permitted, with no roadshow allowed during Vijay's visit.
Vijay's decision to hold a public meeting in Puducherry underscores his political ambitions as he gears up for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. In February 2024, Vijay converted his fan club, Vijay Makkal Iyakkam, into a political party, marking his formal entry into politics. While he has stated that he will not be contesting the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, he has expressed his commitment to being fully involved in politics, viewing it as "sacred people's work".
Vijay has a history of public engagement and welfare activities. His fan club has been actively involved in political programs and has participated in local body elections in Tamil Nadu. During the recent floods in Tamil Nadu, Vijay personally visited affected areas, distributing relief items and urging his fan club members to contribute to the relief efforts.
The TVK had initially planned a roadshow in Puducherry for December 5, but authorities denied permission. Social organizations had advised the government against allowing the event. This led the party to shift its focus to a public meeting at the Uppalam ground.
The public meeting is seen as an opportunity for Vijay to connect with his supporters and communicate his political vision. It also serves as a platform for the TVK to mobilize its base and prepare for the upcoming Assembly polls. Vijay's increasing popularity has attracted attention from other political parties, with reports suggesting potential alliances and discussions.
