Actor-politician Vijay's Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) has sought police protection for his proposed visit to meet farmers protesting against the Rs 32,704-crore Parandur greenfield airport project in Tamil Nadu's Kanchipuram district.
In a letter to Director General of Police Shankar Jiwal dated January 11, TVK requested security arrangements for Vijay's planned visit on either January 19 or 20 to Ekanapuram village, one of the affected areas.
"Our president is deeply concerned about the socio-economic challenges faced by the farmers in the region. During this visit, our president aims to engage with the farmers directly to listen to their concerns and work towards finding sustainable solutions," the letter stated.
Environmental activists and local residents have been opposing the project since its announcement in 2022. The proposed airport, planned as Chennai's second aerodrome, will require 2,171 hectares of land, including 1,386.43 hectares of agricultural land and 577 hectares of water bodies.
Protesters have raised concerns about the loss of fertile farmland and the project's impact on local water resources. According to activists, more than 13 water bodies would be affected if the land acquisition proceeds.
The TVK's letter also requested "arrangements to create a secure environment for constructive dialogue" with the affected farmers.