The decision to field Sakthivel, alias Attral Arasu, VCK’s deputy general secretary, from Periyakulam (SC) constituency this year, as part of the ruling DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance is being viewed as a calculated strategic move. | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement The Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), which traces its roots to the Dalit Panthers Iyakkam (DPI) in Madurai, is testing the waters in Periyakulam (SC) constituency returning to its southern origins for the 2026 Assembly elections. The VCK’s journey as a political party began when Thol. Thirumavalavan took over the mantle of the DPI in Madurai following the passing of its leader, A. Malaichamy, in 1989. Published – April 12, 2026 01:56 pm IST Share this: Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window) WhatsApp Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook Click to share on Threads (Opens in new window) Threads Click to share on X (Opens in new window) X Click to share on Telegram (Opens in new window) Telegram Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window) LinkedIn Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window) Pinterest Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window) Email More Click to print (Opens in new window) Print Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window) Reddit Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window) Tumblr Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window) Pocket Click to share on Mastodon (Opens in new window) Mastodon Click to share on Nextdoor (Opens in new window) Nextdoor Click to share on Bluesky (Opens in new window) Bluesky Like this:Like Loading... Post navigation Modi seeks backing for women’s quota amendments; Kharge questions timing of Bill Tamil Nadu elections: When an Achuthamenon campaigns for CPI(M) candidate in Kilvelur