Thol Thirumavalavan, president of the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), announced his party will remain within the DMK-led alliance for the upcoming elections [1].
This decision solidifies the current coalition structure in Tamil Nadu as parties prepare for the 2026 Assembly elections [3]. By rejecting a potential partnership with the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), Thirumavalavan ensures that the VCK does not split its support away from the Secular Progressive Alliance.
Speaking in Chennai, Thirumavalavan said that Tamil Nadu is going to witness a coalition government. He said that his party has decided to stay with the DMK and will not expect any invitation from TVK [1].
Thirumavalavan dismissed the ability of TVK, the party led by actor Vijay, to challenge the current power structure. He said TVK lacks the political strength to dislodge the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance [2].
The VCK leader also suggested that the entry of Vijay into the political arena as a solo candidate could benefit the existing alliance. He said Vijay’s solo entry may split the anti-DMK vote, which actually favours the DMK alliance [3].
While some reports indicated the VCK chief might opt out of the polls entirely [2], other accounts suggest he is defending his return to the state electoral field [3]. Regardless of the specific seat strategy, the commitment to the DMK alliance remains the central pillar of the party's current positioning.
“"Tamil Nadu is going to witness a coalition government."”
The VCK's refusal to align with TVK prevents the emergence of a new third-front coalition that could have challenged the DMK's dominance. By framing Vijay's political entry as a factor that splits the opposition vote, Thirumavalavan is positioning the DMK-led alliance as the only viable path to governance in the 2026 elections.
