Vijay's election affidavit raises eyebrows

In a significant turn of events ahead of the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, actor and TVK chief Vijay has amended his election affidavit to disclose two previously unreported FIRs, igniting concerns over his legal standing as he prepares for a competitive race. The revised document was filed on April 4, just weeks before the elections scheduled for April 23, and raises questions about the implications these legal challenges may have for his political aspirations and public image.

The new affidavit, which was notarised on April 3, details FIR number 74 of 2026 registered at the K5 Peravallur Police Station in Chennai for alleged public disturbances linked to his campaign activities. Vijay has indicated that he became aware of this allegation only through social media. In addition, the document includes FIR number 108 of 2025 from the Koodakovil Police Station in Madurai, concerning an incident at a party conference where a complainant alleges injury by bouncers. The lack of a formal summons for either case complicates the narrative of his candidacy, as it now implicates his campaign with potential legal entanglements.

Vijay's decision to amend his affidavit follows a previous declaration in which he stated there were no pending criminal cases against him. This revelation not only draws attention to his personal legal issues but also reflects the heightened scrutiny that candidates face during electoral periods, particularly in a politically charged environment like Tamil Nadu. His competitors and the electorate may view these updates as a significant factor in evaluating his integrity and readiness for public office amid a backdrop of increasing expectations for transparency among political candidates.

Financial disclosures in the new affidavit reveal that Vijay's movable assets are valued at approximately Rs 410.59 crore, with immovable properties estimated at Rs 220.15 crore—a slight increase from his previous filing. His declared income for the 2024-2025 financial year totals Rs 184.53 crore, alongside pending income tax demands under appeal totaling around Rs 3.44 crore. As Vijay campaigns for seats in the Perambur and Tiruchirapalli East constituencies, the impact of these legal and financial revelations will likely resonate among voters, shaping perceptions of his leadership capabilities in a region where political allegiances run deep.