Reports that the PMK could be warming up to join the ruling TVK-led alliance after the October 6 by-elections have already triggered political unease within one of TVK’s key allies – the VCK.
“Taking advantage of our stand they keep sharing rumours that PMK is joining TVK and that’s why they are not supporting AIADMK but have taken a neutral stand. They say after by-elections they will join TVK alliance and they may even get Deputy Chief Minister’s position. Their aim is to make VCK cadre lose enthusiasm in by-elections and to stop VCK votes fully transferring to TVK. They want to create confusion.”
There are eight Dalits in Vijay’s cabinet – an unprecedented number – including one minister each from the VCK and the Congress. On one side is the possibility of adding the PMK, with its four MLAs and its established Vanniyar support base. On the other is the VCK, whose presence helps the Vijay government project a broader social coalition and whose cadres are currently campaigning for the TVK in two crucial reserved constituencies.
The possibility of the PMK joining the government would therefore potentially have significance beyond electoral arithmetic. Because its participation in the TVK government has given the ruling alliance a distinct social justice and Dalit representation plank, the issue is particularly significant for the VCK.
Asked specifically about reports that the PMK was set to join the TVK alliance after the by-elections and that she could become Deputy Chief Minister, she said: “I appeal to journalists to not give importance to such rumours. TVK leader and School Education Minister Raj Mohan said: “New allies would be decided collectively. Asked specifically whether the party was prepared for a possible VCK exit if the PMK were to join the alliance, the leader said: “We hope both will reconcile and say yes for an inclusive alliance.
