Actor-turned-politician Vijay, chief of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, on Friday expressed gratitude to the people of Tamil Nadu for the record-breaking 85 per cent voter turnout in the recently concluded Assembly elections
Chennai
In a statement shared on the social media platform X, Vijay said the massive turnout had shattered long-standing perceptions that politics is driven only by powerful or highly experienced individuals. He credited ordinary citizens for redefining the political landscape through their active participation. He described the unprecedented participation as a defining moment in the state’s democratic history.
The 2026 Assembly elections, conducted in a single phase across all 234 constituencies, recorded the highest voter turnout in Tamil Nadu since Independence. According to Vijay, the surge in participation was largely driven by youth and women voters, who turned out in large numbers across the state.
Calling the turnout unprecedented, Vijay remarked that Tamil Nadu had never witnessed such high participation before. He described April 23, 2026, as a historic day that demonstrated why elections are often referred to as a festival of democracy. He noted that families, including children, visited polling booths with enthusiasm comparable to festive gatherings, reflecting the vibrancy of the democratic process.
The TVK leader also extended special appreciation to first-time voters and individuals who travelled from other states and even abroad to cast their votes. He emphasized that the commitment shown by citizens highlights the strength of democratic values and deserves widespread recognition.
Vijay further acknowledged the efforts of his party’s grassroots workers, including booth agents and administrators, who faced criticism during the campaign. He stated that the overwhelming voter response served as a fitting answer to those who had questioned the political awareness and capability of his party cadre.
Looking ahead, Vijay expressed confidence in his party’s prospects as it faces a triangular contest against the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam-led alliance and the Opposition All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam-aligned National Democratic Alliance.
He concluded his statement on an optimistic note, expressing hope for a positive outcome and asserting that victory was within reach.
