With hours left for the results of the Assembly elections, anticipation is sky high in the TVK camp. The fledgling party and its founder, actor Vijay, are reportedly taking steps to avoid poaching of their candidates in the event of a major gain, according to reports.
With most exit polls predicting a favourable outcome for TVK - Axis My India forecast over 120 seats for TVK in its debut elections - Vijay has received confidential information that the DMK and AIADMK are planning to woo the winning TVK candidates to their side.
Local media reports hint that Vijay has been holding consultations with 234 candidates to thwart any plans by the DMK and AIADMK to buy them. The actor-turned-politician also received information that DMK and AIADMK members might cause disturbances in the counting centres. Following this, he met the Chief Electoral Officer and instructed Adhav Arjuna to file a petition seeking security at the counting centres.
He also reportedly told his candidates to contact him directly in case of any inconvenience or pressure during the counting of votes. A special number has been provided for this. “Each of our candidates is a cadre. It is your responsibility to bring them to Panayur for safety,” Vijay told TVK senior leader Aadava Arjun and Bussy Anand.
There are also reports that a rift within the ruling Secular Progressive Alliance (SPA) could benefit TVK. There were allegedly differences of opinion among these alliance parties, including on campaign strategies and policy decisions. The allies were upset that the DMK leadership did not allocate the number of seats requested by them. The tug-of-war between the DMK and the Congress that continued until the last minute is a testament to this. Similarly, allegations were also raised that the alliance party leaders were not given due importance in the election campaigns. Many speculate that a storm is brewing within the alliance, and this could, in turn, benefit TVK if it manages to put up a good performance.
Vijay had announced in his first political conference that parties that join the TVK will be given a share in the government. This announcement caused a huge stir, considering that the DMK never mentioned a share in government. But this time, the Congress have raised its voice seeking a share in the ministry. If the DMK does not accept this, there is a high chance of the alliance breaking up.
