Tamil Nadu CM Vijay's wife Sangeetha withdraws divorce petition

Tamil Nadu CM Vijay's wife Sangeetha withdraws divorce petition

Sangeetha Sornalingam, the wife of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay, withdrew her divorce petition on Friday. The development brings a sudden shift to a legal battle that had drawn intense public scrutiny due to the Chief Minister's dual status as a sitting political leader and one of Tamil cinema's most successful actors.

According to reports from Tamil media, including Daily Thanthi, Sangeetha appeared before the Chengalpattu Family Welfare Court via video conference to express her unwillingness to pursue the case. This led to the court closing the proceedings. However, other reports suggest a different outcome, claiming the court did not close the case but instead postponed proceedings without fixing a new date. In those accounts, counsel for the Chief Minister informed the court that he could not appear in person because the Assembly session was under way.

The legal dispute began in February this year when Sangeetha filed the petition at the Chengalpattu Family Court. In the filing, she allegedly cited infidelity as a reason for the separation. According to an ANI report, Sangeetha alleged that Vijay had engaged in an extramarital affair with an actress. Other reports indicate she stated that the actor had gradually distanced himself from domestic life and withdrew emotionally.

The petition further alleged that Vijay attended public events and traveled abroad with an unnamed actress, a situation that reportedly caused distress to Sangeetha and their two children, son Jason Sanjay and daughter Divya Sasha.

The couple married in August 1999 and have been together for about 25 years. Despite the high-profile nature of Vijay's career, Sangeetha has largely avoided the public spotlight.

The proceedings were marked by the couple's desire for privacy. When the case was heard earlier this year, neither party appeared in person, instead requesting to appear via video conference. During a hearing on June 15, the judge raised procedural questions and suggested the parties be sent to a mediation center, subsequently adjourning the matter until August 7.

Vijay, known as Thalapathy Vijay, transitioned from a three-decade career in cinema to politics by launching the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) party before becoming the Chief Minister. This rise in political stature has increased the level of public and observer interest in his personal affairs.

The withdrawal of the petition has sparked speculation regarding a potential reunion. However, no official confirmation of a reconciliation has been issued. Neither Vijay, Sangeetha, nor their representatives have provided a detailed statement regarding the reasons for the withdrawal. Legal observers note that withdrawing a divorce petition does not automatically confirm a reconciliation or reveal the specific personal reasons behind the decision.

Further clarity on the status of the marriage remains awaited as no official statements have been released.