AIADMK criticizes Vijay for visiting Karur in view of by-elections

AIADMK spokesperson and former Tamil Nadu minister D. Jayakumar. Photo file | Photo credit: The Hindu

The AIADMK on Saturday (July 11, 2026) criticized Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay for making his visit to Karur only in view of the by-elections likely to be held in the assembly constituencies.

Talking to reporters, former minister D. Jayakumar said the chief minister could have talked about the 3.5 lakh posts in the state government lying vacant or the problems faced by farmers, especially those in the Cauvery delta, who will be cultivating paddy during the ongoing Kuruvai cropping season.

Regarding the families of those who died in a stampede during a rally organized by Mr. Vijay in September last year, Mr. Jayakumar said the Chief Minister could have paid the solatium himself instead of providing government jobs.

By his act, Mr. Vijay “robbed the opportunities” of youngsters who were preparing for competitive examinations conducted by the Tamil Nadu Public Service Commission, Mr. Jayakumar said.

Accompanied by former minister Gokula Indira, he decorated the statue of Azhaga Muthukone on the occasion of the freedom fighter’s birth anniversary.

Published – Jul 11, 2026 1:37 PM IST