Can Vijay’s TVK Join Hands with AIADMK and BJP to Challenge DMK in 2026?

Chennai: Speculation is mounting in Tamil Nadu’s political circles over a possible grand alliance between Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), the AIADMK, and the BJP, aimed at unseating Chief Minister M.K. Stalin’s DMK government in the upcoming 2026 Assembly elections.

The buzz gained momentum after AIADMK General Secretary and Opposition Leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) reportedly held a telephone conversation with actor-turned-politician Vijay, opening the door for what could become a significant political realignment.

According to sources, EPS extended a welcome to Vijay into the NDA fold, an invitation the TVK chief has not declined outright. Vijay is said to have conveyed that he would announce his political stance after Pongal next year.

The phone call between EPS and Vijay reportedly took place on Monday evening, following the tragic incident at Vijay’s Karur rally on September 27. AIADMK insiders said the call was initially intended as a condolence message, but the conversation soon turned toward potential political collaboration to challenge the DMK in the 2026 polls.

“He (Vijay) did not reject the invitation. He wants to first meet the victims’ families and resume his campaign soon. He also assured a direct meeting with the Opposition Leader after Pongal, when he will take a final decision,” The Print quoted AIADMK sources as saying.

The discussion reportedly lasted for over 30 minutes, with EPS expressing his condolences and full support to Vijay. “He assured that the AIADMK stands firmly with him and the victims. Vijay, in turn, thanked him and said he plans to visit the affected families soon,” sources added.

A senior AIADMK leader confirmed that the conversation took place on October 6, adding, “We are not rushing him. He needs time. But he has clearly indicated his willingness to oppose the DMK government and will decide on the alliance after Pongal 2026.”

A TVK spokesperson also confirmed the conversation, saying the details would be shared “at an appropriate time.”

The exchange between the two leaders comes amid mounting criticism from Vijay’s party against the DMK, which TVK has blamed for the Karur tragedy. Both the AIADMK and BJP have backed Vijay, accusing the ruling DMK of administrative failure and denying proper permissions and security arrangements for his rally.

Political observers say the emerging closeness between Vijay and EPS could reshape Tamil Nadu’s opposition landscape.

“If the DMK continues to isolate Vijay and target his party, a TVK–AIADMK alliance becomes inevitable. Such a coalition could significantly dent the DMK’s prospects. However, it may not materialize immediately — major developments are likely closer to the elections,” political analyst Prof. Arun told The Print.

Since launching his political party, Vijay has identified the DMK as his main political rival and the BJP as his ideological opponent, often steering clear of direct criticism against the AIADMK. However, he has questioned the AIADMK-BJP reunion, stating at a September 27 rally in Namakkal that the “true followers of M.G. Ramachandran and J. Jayalalithaa would not endorse such an alliance.”

Despite that, Prof. Arun noted that Vijay’s tone toward the AIADMK has been notably restrained.

“Even while criticizing the AIADMK-BJP tie-up, Vijay avoided attacking the AIADMK’s leadership or policies. His focus remained on ideological differences, not personal criticism,” he said.

Analysts believe that aligning with the AIADMK could provide Vijay’s relatively new TVK with organizational strength and a statewide grassroots network — an advantage that may prove crucial as Tamil Nadu heads toward a fiercely contested 2026 election.