Chennai: Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) president Thol. Thirumavalavan has expressed regret to party functionaries that he could not contest the Tamil Nadu Assembly election due to pressure from the DMK.
In the election, the VCK was allotted eight seats as part of the DMK-led alliance. Thirumavalavan had announced that he would contest from the Kattumannarkoil constituency, saying the move was aimed at focusing more on state politics.
However, the DMK leadership was reportedly not in favour of his candidature. Under sustained pressure, Thirumavalavan withdrew at the last moment and announced Congress leader Jyothimani as the candidate, who went on to win.
After the election, the VCK supported the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam in forming the government and also secured a place in the cabinet, with its Tindivanam MLA Vanni Arasu becoming a minister. Party sources said Thirumavalavan has since told functionaries that he should have stood by his original decision and not changed it.
