TVK leader Vijay has criticised former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin over his campaign remarks concerning Dharapuram by-election candidate Sathyabhama. Vijay accused the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) of using inappropriate language during its election campaign and alleged that some party leaders had shown a lack of respect towards women.
The remarks have added another point of confrontation between the TVK and DMK as political parties campaign ahead of the Dharapuram by-election.
Sathyabhama's Move to TVK Triggers By-Election
Sathyabhama won the Dharapuram Assembly constituency on an All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) ticket in the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. She subsequently resigned from her MLA position and joined Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), resulting in the need for a by-election in the constituency.
TVK has nominated Sathyabhama to contest the seat again. The DMK and AIADMK have also announced their respective candidates, setting up a contest between the three parties.
Vijay Responds to Stalin's Campaign Remarks
Reacting to Stalin's comments about the Dharapuram election, Vijay alleged that the DMK had conducted an inappropriate meeting in the constituency. He also accused Stalin of using objectionable language while addressing the election-related issue.
Vijay extended his criticism to certain DMK leaders, claiming that they had repeatedly made offensive remarks about women. He further alleged that these leaders failed to give adequate attention to women's concerns, even when women were present alongside them.
During his remarks, Vijay said that voters would hold such leaders accountable in the upcoming elections. He also stated that he could not remain silent when women were allegedly subjected to objectionable comments.
The allegations reflect the growing political disagreement surrounding Sathyabhama's candidacy and the campaign for the Dharapuram seat. Vijay's statements have brought the issue of remarks about women into the ongoing electoral debate.
Campaigns Intensify Ahead of Polling
Vijay has already campaigned in Dharapuram in support of Sathyabhama. Meanwhile, the DMK and AIADMK are also conducting their election campaigns as the parties seek support ahead of polling.
The Dharapuram by-election is scheduled for October 6, with voting also taking place in Madurantakam. The contest has drawn attention following Sathyabhama's shift from the AIADMK to TVK and the exchange of accusations between Vijay and Stalin.
With the parties continuing their campaigns, the controversy surrounding the leaders' remarks has become part of the political discussion ahead of the bypoll.
