VCK Seeks Deputy CM Post, Key Assurances as Talks with TVK Intensify in Tamil Nadu

Chennai, May 9: Political negotiations in Tamil Nadu intensified on Friday as the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) reportedly sought major positions and policy commitments in return for extending support to actor-politician Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) in the ongoing government formation process.

According to party insiders, the Thol Thirumavalavan-led VCK held a high-level virtual meeting chaired by the party chief to deliberate on its future political strategy and possible participation in a TVK-led administration. Discussions during the meeting reportedly centred on power-sharing arrangements, cabinet representation and policy assurances that the party wants incorporated before extending formal support.

Sources within the party said the VCK has demanded the post of Deputy Chief Minister for party president Thol Thirumavalavan. In addition, the party is believed to have sought Cabinet berths for its two newly elected MLAs, arguing that its support could prove decisive in helping TVK cross the majority mark in the 234-member Tamil Nadu Assembly.

The VCK, which won two seats in the April 23 Assembly elections, has emerged as a crucial player amid the ongoing political uncertainty in the state. With TVK securing 108 seats and falling short of the majority figure, support from smaller parties and independents has become essential for the formation of the next government.

Political circles are also speculating about the possibility of Thirumavalavan contesting a by-election from Tiruchirapalli East if the seat becomes vacant. The speculation gained momentum as TVK chief Vijay, who emerged victorious from two constituencies in the Assembly polls, is widely expected to retain the Perambur seat in Chennai. Such a move could trigger a bypoll in Tiruchirapalli East, potentially opening an opportunity for the VCK leader.

Apart from power-sharing demands, the VCK leadership is also understood to have raised several policy-related issues during the discussions. These include the continuation of commissions constituted by the previous government to investigate caste-related killings and atrocities, as well as the implementation of reservation in promotions for Dalits in government employment.

Party leaders reportedly stressed that social justice issues remain central to the VCK’s political agenda and any alliance or support arrangement must reflect those priorities.

The developments come amid growing uncertainty over the next government in Tamil Nadu. While TVK has emerged as the single-largest party, it continues to seek support from various political parties to prove its majority.

The VCK has publicly maintained that the party receiving the people’s mandate should be given the first opportunity to form the government. The party has also voiced opposition to any move towards imposing Governor’s Rule or President’s Rule in the state.

Amid the rapidly evolving political situation, Thirumavalavan met outgoing Chief Minister and DMK president M.K. Stalin on Friday night. The meeting further fuelled speculation regarding the VCK’s final political stand and whether the party may still keep channels open with the DMK even as negotiations with TVK continue.