Chennai, November 27, 2025 – In a significant political development in Tamil Nadu, nine-time AIADMK legislator K A Sengottaiyan, recently expelled from the party, formally joined actor-politician Vijay’s Tamizhaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) in Chennai on Thursday, just a day after resigning as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA). The veteran politician’s entry into TVK marks a strategic move that could reshape dynamics in the western regions of Tamil Nadu, particularly the Kongu belt, where Sengottaiyan has long wielded considerable influence.

The 77-year-old leader, a veteran in Tamil Nadu politics and a staunch M G Ramachandran (MGR) loyalist, arrived at the TVK headquarters in Panaiyur accompanied by a delegation of supporters, including former Member of Parliament V Sathyabama. Sengottaiyan was personally received by TVK founder Vijay, who welcomed him with a yellow-red TVK shawl, symbolizing his integration into the party fold. Vijay, in his address, acknowledged Sengottaiyan’s five decades of political experience, describing him as a seasoned leader whose expertise and knowledge of Tamil Nadu’s political terrain would provide a substantial boost to the fledgling party.

Sengottaiyan’s Political Journey

K A Sengottaiyan’s entry into TVK comes after a tumultuous end to his long association with the AIADMK, the party he joined in 1972 when MGR broke away from the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK). Over the course of his political career, Sengottaiyan became one of AIADMK’s most trusted leaders, serving as a minister in multiple state governments and winning elections from several constituencies. Known for his close association with both MGR and J Jayalalithaa, Sengottaiyan has been considered a symbol of loyalty and continuity within the party, often playing a key role in consolidating AIADMK’s support base in the Kongu region.

His political journey began at a young age; Sengottaiyan first entered the Tamil Nadu Assembly at just 20 years old, quickly establishing himself as a formidable presence in state politics. Over the decades, he developed a stronghold in the Erode and Gobichettipalayam regions, leveraging grassroots connections and his reputation as a dedicated public servant. His ability to navigate party factions and regional politics has made him a valuable asset for any political formation in Tamil Nadu.

The Expulsion from AIADMK

Sengottaiyan’s exit from AIADMK was preceded by a period of internal disagreements. On October 31, party general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami removed him from the party after he met with ousted leaders O Panneerselvam (OPS), T T V Dhinakaran, and V K Sasikala, advocating for their reinstatement in the AIADMK fold. This meeting was seen as a direct challenge to Palaniswami’s leadership and prompted Sengottaiyan’s formal expulsion.

Earlier in November, 14 of Sengottaiyan’s supporters, including former MP V Sathyabama, were also expelled, signaling a broader purge of his faction within the AIADMK. Analysts suggest that these moves contributed to Sengottaiyan’s decision to resign from his position as Gobichettipalayam MLA on November 26, paving the way for his induction into Vijay’s political venture.

Strategic Significance for TVK

Political observers believe Sengottaiyan’s entry into TVK represents a strategic acquisition for the actor-led party, particularly in the Kongu belt, encompassing Erode, Coimbatore, and surrounding districts. Sengottaiyan’s influence in these eight assembly constituencies is expected to bolster TVK’s presence in an area historically dominated by AIADMK and, to a lesser extent, DMK. Party insiders contend that his experience, combined with a loyal support base, could help TVK consolidate votes and attract local leaders who may be seeking alternatives to the AIADMK and DMK.

Vijay himself emphasized Sengottaiyan’s political acumen and public service record, calling him “a symbol of trust for the two great leaders of the AIADMK: MGR and J Jayalalithaa.” In a video message shared during the event, Vijay noted that Sengottaiyan’s decades-long dedication to politics and the welfare of his constituency would be a “big support to TVK,” especially as the party looks to expand its footprint ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.

Political Reactions

The move has drawn reactions from multiple quarters. BJP Tamil Nadu state president Nainar Nagendran sought to downplay its potential impact on the BJP-AIADMK alliance, stating, “Our alliance will not be affected. No matter how many alliances are formed, ours will form the government after the 2026 polls.” Analysts, however, suggest that Sengottaiyan’s realignment could influence regional dynamics, particularly in the western districts, forcing traditional parties to recalibrate their strategies.

Meanwhile, AIADMK insiders expressed concern that Sengottaiyan’s exit could signal a broader erosion of support in the Kongu belt, where his faction had traditionally held significant sway. While Palaniswami’s leadership remains intact, the loss of a seasoned leader like Sengottaiyan may create openings for newer political formations like TVK to establish themselves in key constituencies.

Implications for Tamil Nadu Politics

Sengottaiyan’s move to TVK highlights the growing trend of actor-politicians leveraging experienced party leaders to strengthen nascent political outfits in Tamil Nadu. With the state’s political landscape often dominated by AIADMK and DMK, emerging parties like TVK are increasingly looking to gain legitimacy and grassroots influence by inducting veteran leaders who command loyalty and respect in regional strongholds.

Observers suggest that Sengottaiyan’s induction could also impact candidate selection, voter outreach, and party strategies in western Tamil Nadu. His presence may encourage other dissatisfied AIADMK cadres or local leaders to explore alternatives, potentially reshaping the electoral battlefield ahead of the 2026 polls.

Vijay’s Political Ambitions and TVK Expansion

The induction of Sengottaiyan also underscores Vijay’s intent to position TVK as a serious political contender in Tamil Nadu. By welcoming a veteran with decades of political experience, TVK not only gains legitimacy but also strengthens its organizational structure in key constituencies. Vijay highlighted that Sengottaiyan’s involvement would enhance TVK’s capacity to engage with constituents, understand local issues, and mount a credible challenge to traditional parties.

In his address, Vijay described Sengottaiyan as a figure whose “dedicated work on the political turf” and extensive experience would contribute to TVK’s vision of offering an alternative political platform for Tamil Nadu voters. This narrative positions TVK not merely as an actor-led initiative but as a party with the organizational depth and strategic capability to compete effectively in state politics.

Conclusion

K A Sengottaiyan’s resignation from the AIADMK and subsequent joining of Vijay’s TVK marks a notable realignmentin Tamil Nadu politics. With his decades of experience, strong regional influence in the Kongu belt, and deep understanding of state-level political dynamics, Sengottaiyan’s entry gives TVK a significant boost, particularly in constituencies where the party is seeking to establish a foothold.

While the BJP-AIADMK alliance insists that its prospects remain unaffected, Sengottaiyan’s move could influence voter calculations, alliance dynamics, and candidate strategies in upcoming elections. As TVK positions itself as a credible alternative and seeks to leverage its growing cadre of experienced leaders, the stage is set for a more competitive political landscape in Tamil Nadu, with veteran politicians like Sengottaiyan playing pivotal roles in shaping the state’s future.

This development also exemplifies the continuing influence of seasoned politicians in India’s regional politics, demonstrating that even after decades in mainstream parties, leaders can recalibrate their careers and continue to wield significant influence in emerging political formations. With the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections approaching, Sengottaiyan’s presence in TVK is likely to be a key factor in the evolving electoral calculus, particularly in western Tamil Nadu.