Actor Vijay, leader of Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam, undertook the second phase of his roadshow campaign in the Tiruchirappalli East Assembly constituency on Sunday, drawing large crowds but leaving party workers disappointed after he refrained from addressing the public.
Arriving at Tiruchirappalli Airport from Chennai by a private flight around 3 p.m., Vijay was received by enthusiastic supporters. Police resorted to mild baton charge to control volunteers who attempted to breach barricades at the airport.
During the campaign, Vijay travelled through key areas including Wireless Road, KK Nagar, Kajamalai and Kottapattu. Standing atop a specially designed campaign vehicle, he waved to supporters and sought votes. He also released white doves handed over by cadres as a symbolic gesture.
Highlighting communal harmony, Vijay visited places of worship across faiths. He offered prayers at St. Anthony’s Church on Wireless Road, prostrated at Sri Bachanachi Amman Temple near Kottapattu, and later visited Noorul Huda Mosque in KK Nagar, where he interacted with mosque representatives and sought support.
Former minister and Lalgudi constituency candidate K.P. Krishnan accompanied Vijay during the roadshow. Large crowds gathered along the route, presenting him with shawls, jewellery, photographs and other gifts. In several places, he interacted with children and acknowledged supporters.
Strict police arrangements were in place throughout the route, restricting the movement of two-wheelers and managing crowds. Volunteers were not allowed to follow the campaign vehicle, forcing many to run behind it.
Despite permission granted at select locations including Wireless Road, KK Nagar Bus Stand and Kajamalai Road junction for public addresses, Vijay did not deliver any speech during the nearly 90-minute campaign. This led to disappointment among party cadres who had gathered expecting him to speak.
After completing the roadshow, Vijay returned to Tiruchirappalli Airport around 5.45 p.m. and departed for Chennai.
