Puducherry, Dec 9 (NationPress) Actor-politician Vijay affirmed on Tuesday that he will consistently support the citizens of Puducherry and that his political party will make significant progress in the region's political landscape.

“I will consistently stand by the people of Puducherry, and in the upcoming Assembly elections, the banner of our party will undoubtedly wave here,” he proclaimed during his first major public rally in Puducherry.

Emphasizing the emotional bond over political divides, he remarked that while Tamil Nadu and Puducherry might be distinct entities officially, “we are all part of one family.”

The rally was conducted under stringent security measures following the Karur tragedy that resulted in 41 fatalities.

This event took place at the Uppalam Harbour Complex, where only 5,000 individuals were permitted entry after thorough scanning and verification. Police presence began early in the morning, with each attendee undergoing rigorous security checks prior to entering the venue.

Upon taking the stage, Vijay greeted his supporters with enthusiastic waves and gestures, inciting roaring applause from the audience.

Recalling the political legacy of M.G. Ramachandran (MGR), Vijay said it was Puducherry that once reminded Tamil Nadu to remember MGR.

Dismissive of claims that his political influence would be restricted to Tamil Nadu, he asserted that he would advocate just as fervently for the rights and issues of Puducherry. He commended the Puducherry administration for the comprehensive security measures at the event and took a pointed jab at the Tamil Nadu government, suggesting it should emulate these practices.

“They won’t learn independently,” he stated, adding that the electorate would impart the necessary lesson in the forthcoming elections.

In a pointed critique of the Centre, Vijay claimed that Puducherry continues to be denied full statehood despite persistent demands in the Assembly.

He accused the Central government of not providing sufficient employment opportunities, failing to attract IT firms, and lacking clear performance metrics for its ministers.

He also charged that the Karaikal area has been largely overlooked and relegated to the sidelines of development.

Highlighting issues in civic infrastructure, Vijay noted that Puducherry suffers from inadequate parking spaces and public toilet facilities.

He urged citizens not to place their trust in the DMK, alleging that the Union government has failed to allocate adequate resources to Puducherry, forcing the local government to rely on loans.

Furthermore, he claimed that Puducherry remains the only location in India lacking a proper ration shop system.

As he concluded his address, Vijay reaffirmed his dedication to the people of Puducherry and asserted that his political movement would extend beyond Tamil Nadu, with the union territory being pivotal in the party’s future electoral strategies.