After the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) offered the miffed Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) one more seat, virtually averting a crisis with one of its key allies, VCK chief Thol Thirumavalavan tried to appease party cadre, urging them to beware of provocation from political opponents.
At the party’s Women’s Day celebrations in Tindivanam on Saturday evening, Thirumavalavan, who addressed the gathering, said, “VCK has been in alliance with DMK for a long time, based on which, they have given us two seats for coming Lok Sabha elections. Next to DMK and AIADMK, we are the next strongest party in the state.”
He said VCK cadre should maintain discipline like the other Dravidian parties. He said after the arrival of VCK, Tamil Nadu has seen many changes. “Research statistics showed that VCK has a permanent vote bank in the state. Party cadre should work hard to achieve victory in the two parliament constituencies allotted to the party in the coming Lok Sabha elections. Only then can the party get recognition and a permanent symbol from the election commission,” he said.
He advised his party cadre to maintain peace and cautioned them of provocation by political opponents.
With VCK cadre in several districts taking to the streets to express disappointment over being allotted one seat, it looked almost certain that the party would walk out on the DMK-led front in Tamil Nadu. Party treasurer MK Stalin saved the alliance by allotting the VCK the Tiruvallur constituency in addition to Chidambaram.
Saturday being International Women’s Day, Thirumavalavan, urged women to give importance to education, as it would benefit themselves and their families.
“Although there are many women holding high positions, yet they are not considered equal in society. Women form half the population, but they don’t have proper security and full freedom,” he said.
He further added that women should be given full rights and men must respect the feelings of their womenfolk.