Political Reset
The emergence of TVK, however, heralds an entirely new chapter in the annals of Tamil Nadu politics, which has been dominated for decades by the two Dravidian parties. Two things stand out significantly. For one, the victory of TVK at the hustings reveals a deep sense of embedded desire among the voting population to usher in change. For another, it also demonstrates an astonishing propensity on the part of young voters to come out in a massive way to aggressively vote for a new order.
Aspiration Defeats Convention
Reports have suggested that these young voters played a significant influencer role in nudging the older ones to vote for Vijay. For these young ones, the past is of no consequence. They appear to be concerned about the future. Not surprisingly, the familiar rustic political faces failed to impress these aspirational young voters. That Tamil Nadu voters have chosen to entrust Fort St George to an entirely untested newcomer to politics gives a clue or two to their deep desire – nay, frustration – with the hitherto familiar political class.
Post the formation of the government, some have started arguing that a significant majority of the population has indeed voted for the two other big alliances – DMK and AIADMK. One can keep arguing this till the cows come home. The fact of the matter, however, is that TVK is the single largest one. People have indeed given it a mandate. And, that has to be respected. Now TVK has to settle down to fulfil the aspirations of the young voters. A few welcome moves have been the inclusion of supporting parties (who earlier contested as part of the DMK alliance) in the ministry augurs well. It is one thing to be in opposition. It is quite another to be part of the government. There is an advantage in including a national party in his ministry. It gives Vijay an instant opportunity to redefine the politics in Tamil Nadu with a nationalistic vision. Hopefully, the metamorphosis in Tamil Nadu will bring about an air of freshness across the canvas.
Governance requires a sense of responsibility and restraint. Since TVK is a nascent party, it can start on a clean slate without any past baggage. That should be a big advantage for it. It has taken over at a time when most economic numbers have put Tamil Nadu in an advantageous position. Yet, it has a tough task on hand-
revenue generation.