CHENNAI: After facing the ignominy of not having a candidate in Edappadi, the home constituency of AIADMK general secretary K Palaniswami where its candidate’s nomination was rejected, the TVK has extended support for an independent.

In a statement, Vijay said the party would back K Premkumar, a former functionary of his fan club (TVMI), who is contesting as an independent. "I extend my greetings to the people of Edappadi Assembly constituency in Salem district. K Premkumar, who is contesting as an independent, is one among us and has earlier served in our fan club," he said.

Declaring the party's decision, Vijay urged voters to treat Premkumar as the party's candidate in the constituency. "I request voters to support him and cast their vote for the 'television box' symbol allotted to him at serial number 12," he said.

Alleging that attempts were made to block the party from contesting, Vijay said the result should send out a message. "Those who tried to stall our symbol and seek victory through other means should be answered through his win," he said, appealing to cadre and voters to ensure a decisive margin.