Rajinikanth says his party Rajini Makkal Mandram won't contest Lok Sabha 2019 elections

Rajinikanth's party Rajini Makkal Mandram will not contest the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, the actor-turned-politician said on Sunday. In a statement, he warned the media not to use his photograph or party symbol for any propaganda. The 68-year-old had announced entry into politics on December 31, 2017.

"My party has no support in the upcoming parliamentary election to any parties. So no one should use my photo or flags in the name of Rajini makkal mandram and Rajini Fan Club should be used to support or campaign for any party," he said.

"The main problem in Tamil Nadu is the water, in upcoming election who set up a stable, strong regime in the centre to solve water problem of Tamil Nadu and implement it people should believe them and must vote them," read the statement.

Although he is yet to officially float his party, the superstar has converted his fan clubs into the 'Rajini Makkal Mandram' - a political outfit that is putting together a framework for the party.

Ever since his entry into politics, Rajinikanth has been meeting people all over Tamil Nadu over various issues, including the kin of those who were killed during the anti-Sterlite protests that took place in Thoothukudi last year.