Rajinikanth, the face of BJP: Opposition against actor's political debut

Chennai: Tamil actor Rajinikanth's launching of a new third front in Tamil Nadu has created speculation amongst opposition political parties in the state. While addressing media in Kanchipuram Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi leader Thol Thirumavalavan alleged that though Rajinikanth had health issues, he was forced to enter politics by Bharatiya Janata Party and RSS.

VCK alleged that Rajini's decision has been influenced by Sangh Parivar and that he is now a part of Sanatan force who are trying to divide Tamil Nadu. The party also criticized his decision to make Arjuna Murthy, who belongs to BJP as one of his office-bearers.

Clearing VCK's stand on this, S S Balaji, Deputy General Secretary of the party, spoke to Madhyamam to lament the effect this will have on the people of Tamil Nadu.

"Right from 1992 Rajinikanth has been expressing his interest to join politics while particularly prior to his movie release...People from downtrodden sections are following him, by his political entry he is going to lose them too. Only the Sanatan force can uphold him," Balaji opined. He also questioned the motive behind launching a political party in January 2021 months ahead of Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.

CPI(M) Tamil Nadu Chief Balakrishnan raised his disappointment over Rajini's political entry and said: "Starting a political party is not like starting a private company on one's own. The things he was saying about 'athisiyam' (Surprise) and 'arputham' (miracle) were just a dream. No one is telling him to not come in the political arena. But new changes cannot be brought here in this way."

Following his announcement to launch a political party on his own, AIADMK and DMK in the state have confirmed that it would affect their vote sharing. Speaking to Madhyamam, Deepan Saran Raj, DMK student leader criticised the actor and termed him a "puppet" for the right-wing.

"DMK as a secular democratic party is not preventing anyone from joining politics as this is a democratic country, but Rajinikanth's political entry will only affect BJP and AIADMK," said Saran Raj.

Recently Deputy Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, O. Panneerselvam welcomed the alliance with Rajinikanth. As per the latest information from his political advisor Tamilaruvi Manian, the party will contest in all 234 seats in next year's election.