Cuddalore, Jan 10: At the People’s Rights Retrieval Conference 2.0 organised by the Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) in Cuddalore on Friday, party leaders passed a series of important resolutions, including a call for the nation’s highest civilian honour — the Bharat Ratna — to be conferred posthumously on late actor-politician Vijayakanth.
Vijayakanth, fondly known as “Captain,” was a celebrated Tamil film star who later founded the DMDK and made significant contributions to Tamil Nadu politics. His death in December 2023 left a considerable impact on the party and its supporters.
At the conference near Veppur village, DMDK leaders highlighted Vijayakanth’s service to society and his influence in both cinema and public life as reasons why he deserves the Bharat Ratna — India’s most prestigious civilian award.
They also passed a resolution calling on the Tamil Nadu government to construct a public memorial (mani mandapam) in his honour at a government-owned location.
In addition to the Bharat Ratna demand, the party outlined several other resolutions addressing farmers’ welfare, law and order, drug prohibition, and fishermen’s rights. The DMDK conference coincides with the ramp-up to the 2026 Assembly elections, and leaders used the platform to reinforce party priorities and public policy demands.
The move to seek the Bharat Ratna for Vijayakanth reflects the DMDK’s efforts to preserve and promote the legacy of its founder as it prepares for the forthcoming electoral battle.