VCK Unveils Candidates in Puducherry Amidst Congress Dispute
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Chennai, March 26 (NationPress) The Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) has officially unveiled its candidates for three constituencies in Puducherry following a conflict with the Congress regarding seat distribution within the coalition led by the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK).
This decision comes in light of the Congress' unwillingness to retract its nominee from the Uzhavarkarai constituency, which had been designated for the VCK according to the alliance's agreement.
The VCK asserted that this seat was part of the constituencies assigned to the DMK in the Congress-led coalition and was later relinquished for their contest.
Despite the prior arrangement, the Congress proceeded to field a candidate in Uzhavarkarai, escalating tensions among the coalition partners.
The VCK claimed that the Congress nominee had historical ties with the RSS and the BJP and had only recently joined the Congress, raising questions regarding the party's adherence to alliance principles.
Attempts by the VCK to amicably resolve the matter with the Congress' Puducherry faction proved futile, as the latter refused to withdraw its candidate. The VCK expressed that this situation has instigated uncertainty regarding its role in the coalition and has raised doubts about the partners' collaboration.
With the deadline for candidate withdrawals concluding at 3 P.M. on Thursday, the VCK stated that it had no choice but to announce its candidates for the constituencies where nominations had already been submitted.
Additionally, the VCK voiced that the Congress' stance has amplified broader concerns about the coalition's electoral viability in Puducherry.
In a call to voters to rally behind its candidates, the VCK affirmed its commitment to defeating the BJP-led alliance and establishing a government dedicated to social justice, harmony, and development.
The party has nominated Pe. Ariyaputhri, also known as Arimaththamizan, from Oussudu, Pa. Amudavan from Nettapakkam, and Selva Pushpalatha from Uzhavarkarai.
This incident highlights the rising tensions within the Opposition coalition in Puducherry as parties intensify their preparations for the forthcoming elections.