TVK political controversy in Tamil Nadu

Vijay Condemns DMK Government Over Alleged Political Discrimination Against Fishermen

In a strongly worded statement on July 10, 2025, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) president Vijay publicly accused the DMK-led Tamil Nadu government of engaging in discriminatory practices against fishermen from Kootapuli village in Tirunelveli district. According to Vijay, these fishermen were denied government subsidies simply for displaying TVK’s name on their fishing boats.

The incident highlights what Vijay calls a growing trend of political bias in government welfare schemes. He alleged that the local officials informed the fishermen they would be ineligible for subsidy benefits unless they removed the TVK name from their boats — a move he termed “autocratic and unjust.”

“Who gave the order to deny subsidies to TVK supporters? Would the same apply if they had painted DMK’s name on their boats?” Vijay questioned, asserting that subsidies are funded by taxpayers and not party money.

Vijay emphasized that every eligible fisherman, regardless of political allegiance, has the constitutional right to government support. He urged the DMK government to act fairly and avoid using administrative tools as weapons against opposition parties or their supporters.

Adding further pressure, the actor-turned-politician warned of a mass protest if such discriminatory actions continue. He claimed that this was not an isolated case, and similar complaints have emerged from other coastal areas in Tamil Nadu.

He didn’t stop there. Vijay also called out both the State and Union governments for their collective failure in addressing the persistent challenges faced by the fishing community. He stressed the need for concrete diplomatic and legal action over the contentious Katchatheevu island issue, which continues to affect the livelihood of Indian fishermen.

The incident has sparked outrage among local fishing communities, many of whom feel betrayed by the political system. For them, the issue is not about party lines — it’s about survival, rights, and respect.

Vijay’s stand has reignited the debate around fairness in the distribution of state benefits and brought fresh focus on the plight of coastal communities in Tamil Nadu. As the situation unfolds, all eyes are on the DMK government’s next move and how it addresses the growing discontent among one of the state’s most hardworking communities.