Vijay Clarifies Chennai Meeting With School Toppers, Says Event Has No Political Motive

Vijay Denies Political Motive Behind Chennai Event Honouring School Toppers, Says No Vote Appeal

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) president C Joseph Vijay has rejected suggestions that his meeting with school toppers in Chennai was politically motivated, insisting that the programme was solely intended to recognise students for their academic accomplishments.

Speaking at the awards ceremony on Wednesday, Vijay sought to distance the event from political campaigning, particularly amid recent observations by the Madras High Court regarding the involvement of children in political activities.

The event, an annual initiative that began in 2023, honoured Class 10 and Class 12 toppers with cash awards and certificates for their outstanding academic performance. Vijay also dismissed speculation that the gathering was part of an effort to attract young voters or prepare for the 2029 Lok Sabha elections.

Addressing the students, he said, “I am not here as a Chief Minister. As usual, I am here as your brother.” Responding to speculation about his political ambitions, Vijay clarified that he had no intention of using the occasion to seek votes or discuss politics.

“Perhaps you think Vijay is preparing for 2029 now itself. But nothing of the sort. I am not here to speak politics and am not seeking votes either. At present, I don’t think you need politics and party. Study well, achieve more and reach heights,” he told the students.

Vijay also spoke about the importance of mutual respect between boys and girls, urging students to avoid bribery, corruption, drugs and other harmful habits.

TVK Responds to Madras High Court Observations

The event comes shortly after the Madras High Court raised concerns over the involvement of children in TVK’s political campaigns, describing the practice as being in bad taste. The court’s observations had intensified scrutiny of the party’s activities involving minors.

Responding to the concerns, TVK spokesperson M Sathya Kumar said the party respected the court’s observations and was taking necessary precautions.

“The court observations are valid. We are abundantly cautious. We are consciously following the court order,” Kumar said.

However, he maintained that the party could not prevent children from voluntarily associating with it or participating in political campaigning.

Kumar also defended Vijay’s academic recognition initiative, stating that the programme had been organised consistently for several years and reflected the actor-politician’s commitment to encouraging educational excellence.

He added that the initiative initially began on a modest scale nearly a decade ago before expanding into constituency-level programmes as the party strengthened its political presence.