Tamil Nadu Govt Formation: All actor-turned-politician Vijay's fans were staring not at their hero, but someone else in the last 24 hours, as the TVK president's dream to become chief minister was hanging on a cliff. It was Thol. Thirumavalavan, chief of the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), who emerged as a crucial "kingmaker" in Tamil Nadu following the 2026 Assembly elections. In the last few hours, Thirumavalavan kept everyone guessing as to what decision he would make on supporting TVK or not.

Finally, on Saturday, a day before the deadline of forming the government, the VCK ended the suspense and declared unconditional support to Vijay-led TVK to form the government in Tamil Nadu, which means that now the alliance has the magical number: 118.

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Senior VCK leader Vanni Arasu, also the legislature party leader, in a letter addressed to Governor Rajendra Arlekar, declared support for TVK. Soon after the Thirumavalavan-led party's decision, the Indian Union Muslim League also assured its support to TVK. Vijay-led Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, with 108 seats, but 10 short of a majority. Vijay, who has won from two segments, has to resign from one of them, bringing down the party's strength to 107. The number of MLAs from parties supporting the TVK-- Congress (5) and the CPI, CPI (M), VCK and IUML with two MLAs each, stands at 13.

Numbers At Play

TVK: 108, but the effective number is 107
Congress: 5
CPI: 2
CPI-M: 2
VCK: 2
IUML: 2
Total: 120

What Is VCK's Ideology?

Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi means Liberation Panthers Party, which, apparently, revolves around Ambedkarism, asserting social justice. The VCK is also influenced by Dravidian and Left politics. Its ideology presses a social movement aiming for equal Dalit rights and an anti-caste system. The VCK seeks to abolish the caste system and promote equality among Tamilians. The party also advocates the uplift of socio-economically weaker sections, particularly Dalits (Scheduled Castes), Scheduled Tribes, OBCs, and minorities (Christians and Muslims).

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VCK's Leaders And Stronghold Region

The VCK was founded in 1982; however, rebranded by Thirumavalavan in 1989. Currently, VCK chairperson Thirumavalavan and General Secretary D Ravikumar are its key leaders. Newly elected two MLAs: Vanniarasu (Tindivanam) and LE Jothimani (Kattumannarkoil seat), are going to have a crucial influence in the upcoming Vijay government. The party has two Lok Sabha MPs: Thol. Thirumavalavan from the Chidambaram seat and D Ravikumar from Villupuram constituency.

The VCK has its historical and political stronghold in the southern and northern districts of Tamil Nadu, particularly centred around Madurai. The party holds influence in Cuddalore, Villupuram, Chengalpattu, and Tiruvannamalai districts.

(With Agencies inputs)