Chennai: The Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) is expected to formally leave the DMK-led alliance and join the ruling front led by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay, according to sources.
VCK president Thol. Thirumavalavan is likely to make an official announcement later on Tuesday. If confirmed, the move will mark another major political shift in Tamil Nadu after the recent Assembly elections.
The VCK had supported Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) after the elections. TVK emerged as the single largest party by winning 108 of the 234 Assembly seats, falling just short of a majority. Support from the VCK, Congress, Left parties, and the Indian Union Muslim League helped Vijay form the government.
Several MLAs from these supporting parties later joined the new government. However, only the IUML and the CPM have officially announced their exit from the larger opposition alliance so far.
Political observers believe the VCK’s expected decision will formally end its long-standing association with the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK).
The VCK is also expected to attend a meeting organised by the TVK later today. The meeting is likely to include leaders from the Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (MDMK), another former DMK ally.
Last week, MDMK leader Vaiko announced that his party was ending its nine-year alliance with the DMK. However, he has not officially confirmed whether the MDMK will join the TVK-led front.
The latest political developments indicate that Tamil Nadu’s political landscape continues to change after the Assembly elections, with several former DMK allies moving closer to the ruling TVK alliance.