Actor-Politician Vijay backs farmers opposing Parandur airport project

Tamizhaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay on Monday pledged his support to farmers protesting the proposed airport at Parandur, near Chennai, and accused the ruling DMK government of having vested interests in the project. Addressing locals from an open van at Podavur, Vijay criticized the government for prioritizing the project over farmlands and waterbodies, branding it "anti-people."

Without naming the DMK directly, Vijay pointed out the party's previous opposition to projects like the eight-lane expressway while in opposition, questioning their silence on the Parandur airport now that they are in power. He also compared the government’s opposition to tungsten mining in Madurai with its approval of the airport project, alleging inconsistency and ulterior motives.

“The destruction of 90% of farmlands and waterbodies for this airport is unacceptable,” Vijay said, adding that his party would support affected farmers and even consider legal action against the initiative. He clarified that his opposition was not to development or a new airport but to its construction at the cost of environmental and agricultural resources.

The event at Podavur saw a large gathering of farmers and locals, many holding paddy crops, symbolizing their livelihood. Vijay’s camper van stopped at multiple locations, where he accepted flowers from supporters and interacted with the crowd.

The visit marked Vijay’s first direct public engagement as TVK chief since launching the party in February 2024. Critics had previously accused him of staying distant from ground-level issues, but this event emphasized his focus on addressing key concerns. Vijay’s earlier activities as party chief included a massive public meeting in October at Vikravandi, setting the stage for his growing political involvement.