Vijay moves to protect TVK government amid fears of fresh political upheaval
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay has stepped up efforts to strengthen his six-month-old government amid concerns over possible attempts by opposition parties to destabilise the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK).
Vijay met his party legislators at a luxury hotel in Mahabalipuram on Wednesday, holding discussions that lasted nearly three hours. The meeting was expected to address controversies surrounding two party MLAs, but much of the focus reportedly shifted to securing the government’s stability.
According to senior party leaders, Vijay held brief individual interactions with most legislators, while a group of 10 members met him together. The discussions centred on political loyalty, the future of newly elected representatives and warnings against accepting inducements from rival parties.
The leadership reportedly highlighted November 13 as an important date, marking six months since Vijay’s government survived a crucial floor test in the Assembly.
One legislator said the MLAs were reminded that another no-confidence motion could emerge after November 13. They were also informed that intelligence inputs suggested the DMK and AIADMK, allegedly with backing from political interests in Delhi, had not given up efforts to attract TVK legislators.
The message from the Chief Minister was reportedly clear: legislators should avoid political temptations and remain committed to the party. They were assured that those who stood by the government would have promising political opportunities ahead.
The meeting also addressed allegations involving two TVK representatives. Deputy Speaker M Ravishankar has faced accusations of assaulting a resident in Thuraiyur who reportedly approached him over drinking water shortages and poor garbage collection. A video allegedly showing the incident circulated widely online. Although the complainant later withdrew his accusation, opposition parties raised questions over the development.
Meanwhile, Kallakurichi MLA C Arul Vignesh was accused of sending an inappropriate message to a district Collector. The legislator rejected the allegation, calling it politically motivated. However, reports of a complaint being sent to the Chief Secretary have emerged, though a formal complaint has not been independently established.
Sources familiar with the meeting said both MLAs received separate warnings. A senior party leader indicated that disciplinary action remained a possibility, although no decision was formally announced.