As the Tamil Nadu Assembly election atmosphere intensifies, a Congress functionary from Madurai has approached the Election Commission with a request to prohibit the screening and broadcast of films featuring actor-turned-politician Vijay, citing concerns over electoral fairness.
Syed Babu, a representative of the Madurai City District Congress Committee, submitted a formal letter to the Chief Electoral Officer of Tamil Nadu, raising objections to Vijay’s on-screen presence during the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct. He argued that Vijay, who recently launched his political party Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), is actively participating in the upcoming elections and positioning himself as a key campaign figure and Chief Ministerial candidate.
According to the complaint, the screening of Vijay’s films in theaters or their telecast on television channels could function as indirect political promotion. Syed Babu contended that such exposure may influence voters and provide Vijay with an undue advantage over candidates from other parties, thereby disrupting the principle of a level playing field.
In his petition, he specifically called for a temporary ban on the exhibition of both new and old films starring Vijay until the conclusion of the election process. He also urged authorities to restrict private and government television channels from airing Vijay’s movies, songs, or comedy clips during this period. The request emphasized the need for the Election Commission to ensure equal opportunity for all candidates contesting the polls.
The development comes at a time when legal discussions are already underway regarding the release of Vijay’s upcoming film Jananayagan. The fresh complaint has sparked debate across political circles as well as among fans, bringing back recurring questions about the role of cinema in influencing electoral sentiment.
Similar controversies have surfaced in the past during election periods, particularly when popular film personalities enter politics. The Election Commission’s response to this latest petition is now being closely watched, as it could set a significant precedent for the intersection of cinema and politics in Tamil Nadu.
