Chennai: A section of ministers in the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) has reportedly advised Chief Minister Vijay to consider dropping the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) from the alliance if it continues to oppose the entry of the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) into the government.
According to the report, TVK had earlier made efforts to bring VCK into its alliance during the Assembly election period, but the party did not agree. VCK later contested eight seats as part of the DMK-led alliance and won two. After the election, VCK extended support to help TVK form the government, and in return it was given a ministerial berth.
However, TVK ministers are said to be unhappy with remarks made at times by VCK leader Thol. Thirumavalavan and minister Vanni Arasu, which they feel put the government under pressure. The report notes that their criticism of the Union government and the Congress party has particularly irked sections within TVK.
The issue has gained momentum after by-elections in Madurantakam and Dharapuram, where TVK candidate Maragatham Kumaravel won by a margin of over 20,000 votes. Some ministers believe PMK votes played a key role, and argue that PMK support is essential to secure victories in northern districts in upcoming elections.
While Chief Minister Vijay is said to have proposed offering PMK two ministerial posts, VCK leaders are reportedly resisting any move to accommodate PMK within the alliance. Efforts by ministers including Aadhav Arjuna and Rajmohan to persuade VCK leaders have not yielded results, and ministers Anand, Sengottaiyan, Nirmalkumar and Arunraj are said to have urged the CM to bring PMK in even if it means removing VCK. The report adds that Vijay has not taken a decision so far.
