Vijay honors MGR’s legacy during his first rally in Puducherry, commending the public for their support.

Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) party founder and actor-turned-politician Vijay, during his inaugural rally in Puducherry on Tuesday, December 9, paid tribute to the legacy of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and AIADMK founder MG Ramachandran (commonly known as MGR), expressing gratitude to the people for their support.

This rally was his first public appearance following the tragic stampede at his Karur rally on September 27, which resulted in 41 fatalities and over 60 injuries.

Vijay’s commendation for Puducherry 
The TVK leader commended Puducherry Chief Minister N Rangaswamy for the security arrangements made for the rally.

“The Puducherry government under CM Rangaswamy is not like the DMK administration in Tamil Nadu,” Vijay remarked, adding, “The Puducherry government is unbiased as it provided security for a rival party’s rally,” according to news agency PTI.

He emphasized his obligation to support the Union Territory of Puducherry, advocating for unity among its citizens.

TVK chief Vijay criticizes Centre and TN governments

Vijay also directed criticism at the Union government and the DMK-led Tamil Nadu state government. “To the Centre, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry are distinct; however, we stand united,” he stated, as per PTI.

“The Union government has neglected to pay attention to Puducherry.” He further mentioned that the administration has not addressed the calls for statehood, according to news agency ANI.

Puducherry | TVK chief & Actor Vijay addresses a large public rally at Uppalam Expo Ground.

He states, “For the Union government, Tamil Nadu is a separate state, and Puducherry is a separate UT. But for us, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry are alike. I thank the Puducherry government for… pic.twitter.com/fdCfjeEJVi

— ANI (@ANI) December 9, 2025

“It would be beneficial for Tamil Nadu’s DMK administration to take a lesson from the impartial Puducherry government. However, they are unlikely to learn at this moment. The DMK regime will certainly learn their lesson during the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. Our people will guarantee that,” Vijay added, according to PTI.

Individual apprehended with a handgun

In a separate incident, a man was apprehended with a handgun while attempting to enter the venue before the event began.

The individual reportedly caused a disturbance as he tried to enter the rally carrying a firearm. Officials quickly detained him.

The man, who claimed to be from Tamil Nadu’s Sivaganga district, stated he was a personal security officer who was late in joining his team, as reported by a police official cited by PTI.

He asserted that he was in possession of a licensed revolver.