- By Aditya Jha
- Tue, 12 May 2026 01:23 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Tamil Nadu Politics: The Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam's (TVK) veteran leader, JCD Prabhakar, has been elected Speaker of the Tamil Nadu Assembly. While the newly formed party came into the limelight due to Chief Minister Vijay's popularity, Prabhakar's appointment is largely seen as an attempt to balance the experience and vision of youth. Prabhakar has spent decades in the politics of Tamil Nadu and also played a key role in strategy making and ticket distribution of TVK.
JCD Prabhakar's Journey
- Prabhakar began his political career during the MGR era, largely dominated by the AIADMK
- He was first elected as an AIADMK MLA in 1980 from Villivakkam
- Known for his strong organisational skills, he held several key posts in J Jayalalithaa era
- Prabhakar quietly built his career behind the camera and is known for having contacts across the party
ALSO READ: Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim Applauds ‘Friend’ Vijay’s Historic Tamil Nadu Win
- He joined Vijay's party due to a dissent of people for the traditional Dravidian parties
- While Vijay already enjoys heavy popularity, Prabhakar formed the narrative and strategy wisely
- His experience could be crucial for the TVK as the party has formed its government for the first time
Why Was He Elected As Speaker?
- Vijay has reportedly tried to prioritise experienced politicians for the key posts like speaker of the assembly
- Prabhakar is expected to play a key role if the opposition protests inside the house
- He is one of the leaders acting like a bridge between the traditional Dravidian parties and the new setup in the southern state
- His experience would be beneficial if the opposition leaders take the aggressive route
Vijay's TVK emerged as the single largest party in the assembly election by winning 108 of the total 234 constituencies. The newly formed party has formed the government with the support of Congress, left forces, IUML, and VCK.