Veteran Communist Party of India (CPI) leader C Mahendran joined actor-turned-politician Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) on Thursday. The formal induction occurred at the TVK headquarters in Panaiyur, Chennai.
Mahendran's Political Journey
Addressing the media after joining, Mahendran, known in CPI circles as "CM," described himself as a "unique politician" with a five-decade-long record in public movements and struggles. "I have been participating in people's struggles and have faced imprisonment for the communist cause since the age of 18," he said.
Despite his switch in political allegiance, he said he would continue to wear his signature red towel. Mahendran asserted that his association with TVK would not dilute his ideological roots but strengthen them. He emphasized that aligning with TVK would reinforce the core principles of communist ideology and public welfare, rather than abandon them.
Eradication of Corruption
He identified the eradication of corruption as the "lifelong, unfulfilled goal" of his political career, expressing confidence in TVK chief Vijay's ability to achieve it. Calling the shift a "democratic revolution," Mahendran praised the party for enabling ordinary citizens without financial backing or caste influence to contest and win elections.
Global Perspective
He recalled attending a 2012 conference in Paris where global leaders questioned whether a poor person could enter a legislature in modern times. He said recent political developments in Tamil Nadu had answered that question decisively. Criticizing existing systems, he said they largely served the wealthy and powerful, while TVK offered a platform to redirect governance towards marginalized communities.
Vision for TVK
Mahendran said he envisions TVK growing into a mass movement inspired by leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi, Periyar, and B R Ambedkar. "This political evolution is a milestone not just for Tamil Nadu but for all of India," he said.
Background
Mahendran began his political journey with the CPI in 1971 and held key organizational posts, including state deputy secretary. He also contested against former Tamil Nadu chief minister J Jayalalithaa in the 2015 R K Nagar by-election. Apart from politics, he is also a writer and literary researcher. Political observers say his move is a significant ideological gain for TVK and reflects a broader trend of experienced leaders gravitating towards Vijay's party.
