Support from sections linked to the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) for Porkodi Armstrong, contesting under the AIADMK alliance, is being seen as a fresh challenge for the DMK in Chennai’s Thiru.Vi.Ka Nagar constituency.
Porkodi Armstrong, leader of the Tamil Nadu state Bahujan Samaj Party, is contesting on the AIADMK’s ‘Two Leaves’ symbol. VCK chief Thol. Thirumavalavan has conveyed greetings to her, while film director Pa. Ranjith has publicly expressed support.
In addition, Aadhav Arjuna, a candidate from the TVK in the Villivakkam constituency, has said he is personally backing Porkodi. Porkodi has been campaigning by seeking justice for the murder of her husband Armstrong, who was killed in 2024, and is appealing for sympathy votes.
The DMK has fielded former MLA Ravichandran in the constituency. Though the VCK is part of the DMK-led alliance, reports say VCK cadres are extending indirect support to Porkodi, with efforts to mobilise votes through figures such as director Ranjith and gaana singers.
With the PMK also in the AIADMK alliance, there is an expectation that a sizeable share of Vanniyar community votes could move towards Porkodi, a development that has reportedly caused concern within the DMK camp.
