Chennai, March 22 – In a significant setback for the DMK-led alliance ahead of the Assembly elections, Tamil Nadu Vazhvurimai Party (TNVP) founder-leader T. Velmurugan announced on Sunday his decision to withdraw from the coalition, citing dissatisfaction with the seat-sharing arrangements and the state government's inaction on key social justice demands.
Velmurugan, who had won the Panruti constituency in Cuddalore district in the 2021 Assembly elections under the DMK's Rising Sun symbol, had this time sought allocation of at least two constituencies, along with the right to contest under a separate party symbol.
However, the DMK reportedly conveyed that it could only offer one seat, leading to discontent within the TNVP.
The disagreement escalated further when Velmurugan presented a 10-point list of demands to the DMK leadership, insisting that his party would continue in the alliance only if these were accepted and implemented by the government.
Among the key demands were a 10.5 per cent internal reservation for the Vanniyar community, prioritizing Tamils for 100 per cent of state government jobs, and conducting a caste-based census in Tamil Nadu.
Announcing his party's withdrawal, Velmurugan alleged that the DMK government had consistently ignored the issues raised by his party, both inside and outside the Assembly.
"We had placed several demands before the government, but none were taken seriously. While the government may have changed, the situation on the ground remains the same," he told reporters.
He also criticised the DMK for failing to take concrete steps towards conducting a caste-based census, questioning its commitment to social justice. "So far, it has been the rule of dominant classes. How can the DMK claim to uphold social justice while neglecting these core issues?" he asked.
Clarifying his future political course, Velmurugan ruled out any possibility of aligning with the BJP-led alliance. Instead, he said the TNVP would explore partnerships with parties willing to accept and implement its demands.
He added that discussions were already underway and a final decision on alliances would be announced soon.
