VCK, which had been among the first in the DMK alliance to finalise seat-sharing during the previous Assembly election, is now finding it difficult to conclude talks for the upcoming election.
According to DMK sources, senior ministers have already held discussions with VCK leader Thol. Thirumavalavan. The VCK side reportedly argued that, with two MPs and four MLAs, it should be allotted eight constituencies this time.
DMK leaders, while describing Thirumavalavan as a trusted ally from the beginning, are said to have pointed to the expanded alliance and the need to accommodate more parties. They reportedly asked VCK to reduce its demand by at least one seat, which Thirumavalavan did not accept.
VCK later reiterated its request for eight seats, including three general constituencies, and sought at least one seat in the southern districts, including Madurai. DMK is said to have agreed in principle but imposed a condition: VCK could contest in six seats on its own symbol, but must contest one reserved and one general seat on the DMK’s “Rising Sun” symbol.
VCK, however, has reportedly rejected the condition, stating that it received official recognition only in the last election and therefore intends to contest on its own symbol this time as well.
