Mon Jan 20 08:45:10 UTC 2025: ## Actor-Politician Vijay Condemns Parandur Airport Project, Accuses DMK of Hypocrisy
**CHENNAI, January 20, 2025** – Actor and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) president Vijay today criticized the ruling DMK party for its stance on the controversial Parandur airport project, accusing them of hypocrisy and staging “drama” on farmers’ issues. Addressing villagers protesting the land acquisition for the ₹29,144-crore project near Chennai, Vijay highlighted the DMK’s past support for farmers’ rights, contrasting it with their current actions.
Vijay, who entered politics nearly a year ago, met with residents from 13 villages who have been protesting for over 900 days against the planned acquisition of over 4,000 acres of farmland for the airport. He stated that while he supports development, it shouldn’t come at the cost of environmental damage or farmers’ livelihoods. He called on both the state and central governments to reconsider the location and explore alternatives.
The actor specifically referenced the DMK’s recent Assembly resolution opposing a tungsten mining project, questioning their inconsistent approach to similar concerns surrounding the Parandur airport. He expressed his intention to visit the protest site at Ekanapuram, despite being denied permission previously.
The Parandur greenfield airport project, which received site clearance last August, has faced significant opposition due to its impact on agricultural land. Heavy security was in place for Vijay’s meeting with protesters.
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