Tamil Nadu Political Landscape Shifts as VCK Leaders Support TVK and Demand Deputy CM Position

Chennai, May 8: In the wake of political uncertainty following the Tamil Nadu assembly election results, the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) convened a high-level committee meeting via video conference on Friday. The meeting indicated strong support for the formation of a government led by actor-politician C. Joseph Vijay’s Tamilga Vetri Katcham (TVK).

The TVK emerged as the largest party in the assembly elections held on April 23, securing 108 seats. However, it is struggling to surpass the majority mark of 118 seats in the 234-member assembly.

In efforts to garner support, the party reached out to components of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK)-led alliance, especially after Congress decided to extend outside support to TVK. Congress, which had separated from the DMK alliance post-elections, pledged its backing to Vijay’s party.

The Communist Party of India and the Communist Party of India-Marxist also announced their intention to support TVK from outside, although they stated they would not join the cabinet.

Against this backdrop, VCK held its high-level committee meeting on Friday evening, attended by over 20 senior leaders. According to party sources, most leaders expressed their support for TVK’s efforts to form a government.

During the meeting, senior VCK leader Ravikumar reportedly emphasized that in any arrangement involving VCK’s support, party president Thol Thirumavalavan should be appointed as Deputy Chief Minister.

Several other leaders echoed this sentiment, arguing that if VCK formally supports the TVK administration, it should receive adequate representation in the cabinet.

Some officials also suggested that VCK’s Deputy General Secretary, Vanni Arasu, should be given a ministerial position.

Party leaders stressed that the new government must prioritize the protection of Dalits, enact specific laws against honor killings, and adopt a firm stance against communal forces without compromise.

Reports indicate that discussions also touched on Thirumavalavan’s future political role, with some members suggesting he should contest from the Tiruchi East assembly seat.

Meanwhile, Vanni Arasu posted on the social media platform X, stating, “It is time for Thiruma’s era; let us rise higher,” fueling speculation about VCK’s support for efforts to establish a government led by Vijay in Tamil Nadu.