T.N. Assembly election: Thirumavalavan defends electoral strategy, says VCK acting with clear long-term perspective

Thirumavalavan defends VCK's electoral strategy, emphasizing long-term goals as applications for Assembly election candidacy open March 21-24.

Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) president Thol. Thirumavalavan on Saturday defended the party’s electoral strategy amid criticism over a likely reduced seat share, saying the party was acting with a clear long-term perspective.

“We know our strengths. We make decisions knowing everything. I don’t make a decision in fear of anyone,” he said, adding that the party had begun receiving applications from party cadre seeking to contest the Assembly election, even as seat-sharing talks within the DMK-led alliance continue.

Addressing a press meet, Mr. Thirumavalavan said applications would be received from March 21 to 24, covering districts in phases. Describing the process as a democratic exercise, he said the party followed this practice in every election. Given the limited time available, formal interviews may not be feasible, he noted.

While acknowledging constraints in seat allocation, he expressed confidence that the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance would remain strong and secure public support. “I should not create unrealistic expectations. If things are clear, cadre will approach the process accordingly,” he said, adding that the party had conveyed this through internal discussions and a recent social media interaction.

On alliance negotiations, the VCK leader said talks were progressing smoothly and decisions would be taken keeping both party and coalition interests in mind. Referring to past electoral outcomes, he said factors such as fielding candidates from outside constituencies could influence results but added that such strategies had also yielded victories in several seats.

He said the party’s decisions were guided by long-term credibility rather than short-term electoral gains. “No matter how widely we work or how many issues we take up, there remains a social stigma in accepting us. We must gradually dismantle that and establish ourselves as a movement for all sections,” he said.