The Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) is demanding the appointment of its chief, Thol Thirumavalavan, as deputy chief minister to support the Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) coalition.
This demand places VCK in a kingmaker position during the current government-formation process. Because the TVK lacks an outright majority, the support of smaller parties is essential to secure a stable administration in the state.
The TVK, led by C. Joseph Vijay, won 108 seats in the Tamil Nadu Assembly [1]. However, a majority in the 234-member Assembly requires 118 seats [2]. This gap has left the TVK dependent on allies to reach the threshold necessary to form a government.
Thirumavalavan and the VCK have sought the deputy chief minister portfolio, and a cabinet position for the party’s deputy general secretary, as conditions for their alliance [1]. The VCK is leveraging its electoral strength to ensure higher political representation and influence for its constituency [1].
Reports on the nature of this support vary. Some sources said that the VCK handed over a letter of support to the TVK while explicitly demanding the deputy chief minister portfolio [1]. Other reports said the VCK may provide unconditional support without specific portfolio demands [3].
Negotiations have taken place in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly following the declaration of election results on May 9 [1]. The outcome of these talks will determine the composition of the new cabinet and the speed at which the government can be sworn in.
“VCK is demanding the appointment of its chief, Thol Thirumavalavan, as Deputy Chief Minister.”
The current deadlock highlights the fragmented nature of the Tamil Nadu Assembly, where the largest party cannot govern alone. By demanding the Deputy Chief Minister role, the VCK is attempting to institutionalize its influence within the executive branch, transforming a tactical legislative alliance into a strategic power-sharing agreement.
