VCK leader Thirumavalavan confident Congress will remain in DMK-led alliance

Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) leader Thol. Thirumavalavan on Monday (March 2, 2026) expressed confidence that, despite the uncertainties, the Congress would continue in the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK)-led alliance and that the partners would unitedly face the upcoming Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu.

Speaking to reporters at Anna Arivalayam, the DMK headquarters in Chennai, after holding seat-sharing talks with the ruling party, Mr. Thirumavalavan said he could not comment on the Congress party’s demand for additional seats.

“Though we are part of the same alliance, the DMK is holding talks separately with its allies and each party has placed its demands. I cannot comment on the stand of another party. They (the Congress) are making their demand on the ground that they are a political force at the national level,” he said.

VCK’s demands

Mr. Thirumavalavan said he had sought seats commensurate with his party’s strength and contribution to the alliance. “The 2026 Assembly election is not just another poll. We are committed to preventing right-wing forces from gaining a toehold in Tamil Nadu and to ensuring a comprehensive victory for the DMK-led secular alliance. We are articulating our views from the standpoint that the VCK is an integral part of the alliance,” he said.

He also made it clear his party was not interested in bargaining with the DMK. “We held talks with the understanding that we must ensure victory for the DMK alliance, as its victory would be a victory for social justice and for Tamil Nadu. The DMK seat-sharing committee listened to our views and will get back to us after discussing the matter with party president and Chief Minister M.K. Stalin,” he added.

The VCK has also sought three seats in Puducherry — one general constituency and two reserved constituencies — but has not made any request for a Rajya Sabha seat.

He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s campaign against the DMK government would not cut ice with the people of Tamil Nadu.