Vishal has faced his first stumbling block in politics. Having filed his nomination for the RK Nagar bye-election on Monday, he was hoping to start his campaign soon. However, the Election Commission has rejected the nomination.

Reportedly, there are discrepancies with respect to two of his proposers' signatures. This has rendered Vishal's nomination papers inaccurate.

Following the rejection, Vishal took to streets to stage a dharna at the Returning Officer's office. He has alleged that some of his proposers were threatened with dire consequences. "I have video proof. They asked me to turn up at 5:30, after the office hours, only to be told that my nomination papers have been rejected," Vishal said.

Late CM Jayalalithaa's niece, Deepa's nomination too has been rejected. She has alleged foul play.

Analysts have it that Vishal's plan to contest the elections is to mop up a share of the votes that would otherwise be going to the AIADMK candidate.