Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) has begun outreach to Muslim organisations that have traditionally backed the DMK, with the stated aim of drawing them closer to TVK, according to party sources.
Sources said TVK’s campaign in the Assembly election had focused on minority votes, but it could not fully consolidate that support as several minority organisations remained closely aligned with the DMK. They cited constituencies with sizeable Muslim populations—such as Chepauk, Harbour, Ambur, Vaniyambadi, Kadayanallur, Ramanathapuram and Palayamkottai—where the DMK-led alliance secured wins.
The sources also pointed to Kanyakumari, where Christians form a significant share of the electorate, saying TVK failed to win even a single seat there. They argued that if the trend continues, the DMK could still secure notable victories in by-elections and local body polls.
TVK sources claimed there are tensions between Sunni and Shia groups over district Haj committee appointments and Waqf positions, and said the party is seeking to turn this to its advantage. They said TVK is in talks with Sunni organisations in Chennai, the delta and northern districts, and is considering giving Sunnis more representation in Haj and Waqf responsibilities, along with roles for Muslim youth who join the party.
The sources further said some conservative Muslim organisations critical of actor-turned-chief minister Vijay and TVK are being engaged in talks, with a warning of legal action if criticism continues. They also referred to internal frictions involving the Indian Union Muslim League, noting efforts to bring one side closer to TVK, and said Vijay has decided to appoint two Muslim ministers during a cabinet reshuffle.
