Will VCK Demand More Seats in the 2026 TN Assembly Elections Without Jeopardizing INDIA Bloc Unity?

Synopsis
As the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections approach, VCK's Thol Thirumavalavan is advocating for a larger seat share from DMK while highlighting the importance of unity within the INDIA bloc. His call to action against communal politics emphasizes the ongoing struggle for social justice and secularism in the state.
Key Takeaways
- VCK seeks more seats from DMK.
- Unity of the INDIA bloc is crucial.
- Thirumavalavan warns against BJP's communal politics.
- Social justice and Dalit rights are key issues.
- Call for secular parties to unite.
Chennai, June 14 (NationPress) Thol Thirumavalavan, the president of Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) and a Member of Parliament, announced on Saturday that the party aims to secure a larger allocation of seats from the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) for the upcoming 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. He emphasized that the unity and strength of the INDIA bloc alliance will take precedence.
Thirumavalavan stated, “The alliance's strength is more significant than that of individual parties. While we will advocate for more seats, discussions will be approached in a way that maintains the integrity of the INDIA bloc.”
He also indirectly referenced the re-emerging BJP-AIADMK alliance, labeling it as a right-wing threat that secular forces must confront together.
The VCK leader clarified that even though his party is dedicated to the concept of a coalition government—a long-standing aspiration—it will not demand such a setup for the 2026 elections.
“This election isn’t about sharing power but about safeguarding Tamil Nadu from the communal agenda of the BJP,” he asserted.
“The AIADMK has now partnered with the BJP, which openly advocates divisive and communal ideologies,” he added.
As a key Dalit leader in Tamil Nadu, Thirumavalavan accused the BJP of eroding the country’s secular ethos.
“For the past 11 years, the BJP has consistently incited hatred against Muslims across various states. Tamil Nadu has been an exception, but they are now attempting to polarize this state as well,” he warned.
He further condemned the BJP for neglecting critical issues like social justice, Dalit rights, and livelihood challenges.
“Rather than championing social equality, the BJP has turned to religious politics, overlooking the primary needs of marginalized communities,” he stated.
Thirumavalavan concluded by urging all secular parties to come together and resist the infiltration of communal politics in Tamil Nadu.
“This is more than just a political struggle; it is a fight to uphold the principles of social justice and secularism,” he declared.