DMK underestimated Vijay, dealt with him liberally after Karur stampede, says Thirumavalavan
VCK founder Thol. Thirumavalavan has criticized the DMK for its handling of the TVK party and its leader, C. Joseph Vijay, following the 2025 Karur stampede. He argues that the DMK's failure to hold Vijay accountable and its poor management of alliance partners led to the collapse of the Secular Progressive Alliance.
Why it matters
This highlights significant political realignment and internal friction within Tamil Nadu's political landscape following the rise of a new Chief Minister.
The DMK [and the government headed by it] grossly underestimated the TVK and simultaneously dealt the party a “liberal hand” by refusing to book a case against its founder and actor C. Joseph Vijay (now Chief Minister), “who was squarely responsible for the Karur stampede (2025)”, said VCK founder Thol. Thirumavalavan in Dharmapuri on Friday. He also blamed the DMK for the dissolution of the Secular Progressive Alliance, attributing it to the breakdown of goodwill and friendship between the DMK and its former allies.
Speaking at the wedding of a party functionary in Dharmapuri, he addressed the accusations that the VCK was to blame for the dissolution of the DMK alliance.
“The DMK, both underestimated the TVK and grossly failed to turn the political heat and the debate on the latter,” said Mr. Thirumavalavan, whose party now shares representation in Mr. Vijay’s Cabinet.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in