Chennai, April 4 – Thol Thirumavalavan, president of the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), has announced that he will not contest from the Kattumannarkoil Assembly constituency in the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, effectively ending speculation surrounding his candidacy.
Speaking to reporters, Thirumavalavan clarified that while he had initially expressed interest in entering the Assembly to represent marginalized communities, recent developments and alliance dynamics have led him to step aside.
"I have completed two years as a Member of Parliament, and my long-term aspiration has always been to be a voice for the oppressed in the Assembly," he said.
Reflecting on his political journey, he pointed out that his decisions have consistently been guided by public welfare rather than personal ambition.
He recalled resigning his position in 2004 and stepping aside in 2006 to provide opportunities for others, underscoring his commitment to collective leadership.
The VCK leader strongly rejected allegations that he was seeking the Deputy Chief Minister's post or positioning himself strategically in anticipation of a hung Assembly.
"These claims are entirely baseless and are being spread to malign my political integrity," he said, adding that such narratives were aimed at weakening the alliance.
Thirumavalavan also addressed speculation that his candidature was denied due to pressure from the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), asserting that the party's seat-sharing decisions were based on principles of social justice.
He emphasised that the VCK had consciously decided to give opportunities to new faces in general constituencies.
Announcing the party's candidate, he said that Jyothimani, the younger son of former leader Ilayaperumal, would contest from Kattumannarkoil.
He dismissed any suggestion of internal discord, noting that discussions with party members, including Aloor Shanavas, were conducted transparently and without coercion.
Highlighting the broader political context, Thirumavalavan described the 2026 election as a crucial battle against the rise of right-wing forces in Tamil Nadu.
He reiterated that his primary objective remains ensuring a decisive victory for the DMK-led alliance, which he said should return to power with over 200 seats.
"I have never entered politics for positions. My past sacrifices stand as proof," he said, reaffirming that strengthening the alliance and safeguarding its interests take precedence over individual aspirations.