CPI Veteran C Mahendran Joins Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam

Veteran Communist Party of India (CPI) leader C Mahendran has joined actor-turned-politician Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). The formal induction ceremony took place on Thursday at the TVK headquarters in Panaiyur, Chennai. This marks a significant shift for Mahendran, who spent over 55 years in the CPI and is widely known in party circles as “CM.”

Speaking to the media after joining TVK, Mahendran highlighted his long-standing commitment to public causes. “I have been part of people’s struggles and have faced imprisonment for the communist cause since the age of 18,” he said. Despite his change in political affiliation, Mahendran emphasized that he would continue to wear his signature red towel, symbolizing his ideological roots.

Mahendran clarified that his move to TVK does not signify a departure from his core beliefs. Instead, he sees this as an opportunity to strengthen his commitment to public welfare and the principles of communism. “Joining TVK aligns with my lifelong goal of eradicating corruption,” he stated, expressing confidence in TVK leader Vijay’s vision and leadership to address this issue.

This development is seen as a boost for TVK, which is positioning itself as a force for change in Tamil Nadu politics. Mahendran’s decades of experience in activism and his reputation as a principled leader could lend credibility to the relatively new party. His decision also underscores the growing appeal of Vijay’s leadership among diverse political figures in the state.

For Mahendran, the move represents a new chapter in his political journey, one that he believes will help achieve the goals he has pursued for over five decades.