After the inaugural conference of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) on 27 October 2024, where chief Vijay announced his willingness to share power with alliance partners who support him, tensions within the DMK alliance intensified, particularly with Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) leader Thirumavalavan, who had previously raised similar concerns to the DMK.
On 6 December 2024, a pivotal event is set to unfold in Tamil Nadu’s political scene as TVK chief Vijay is scheduled to appear at the launch of a book on Ambedkar, presented by Thirumavalavan. The book’s author, Aadhav Arjuna, recently generated buzz with his slogan “Share in governance, share in power,” prompting discussions within the DMK alliance. Despite expectations of dissent, Thirumavalavan emphasized the unity of the coalition.
This backdrop sets the stage for Vijay’s earlier conference in Vikravandi, which drew a massive crowd. During his keynote address, Vijay declared that any parties aligning with TVK in elections would partake in ruling power. This statement, amid significant pressure, led to speculation that Aadhav had influenced him.
In response, Tamil Nadu intelligence agencies closely monitored Vijay, Thirumavalavan, and Aadhav, assigning special officers to gather intelligence. A key revelation was that Thirumavalavan and Vijay would share a platform at the Ambedkar book launch, creating political ripples.
Intelligence reports indicated that Aadhav was instrumental in the “One Man Group” (OMG), which developed strategies for the DMK during the 2019 Lok Sabha and 2021 assembly elections. After discovering that the ADMK had invited strategist Prashant Kishor, Aadhav went to Delhi to persuade Kishor to collaborate with the DMK.
However, conflicts arose between Aadhav and the DMK leadership after the election victory, leading to Aadhav’s discontent and subsequent shift to Thirumavalavan’s party, where he assumed the role of deputy general secretary.
Tensions persisted when Thirumavalavan aimed to nominate Aadhav for the Kallakurichi constituency in the Lok Sabha elections, a request the DMK rejected. This series of frustrations galvanized their demand for a share in governance, particularly in light of Thirumavalavan’s involvement, signalling a strategic pivot against the DMK.
Aadhav, originally from Trichy and a former basketball player, ventured into politics after marrying Daisy, the daughter of a lottery businessman. He began his political career with OMG and later founded a microfinance company and a survey organization. After stepping away from his business commitments, he fully dedicated himself to politics, rising within Thirumavalavan’s party.
Aadhav is the President of the Tamil Nadu Basketball Association and General Secretary of the Tamil Nadu Olympic Association, and he recently became the President of the Basketball Federation of India. As Aadhav continues to shape political strategies, notable developments in Tamil Nadu politics are anticipated following the 6 December event.
Thirumavalavan’s recent meeting with Vijay on a prominent stage marks a notable shift, especially given his previous criticisms of the actor-turned-politician. In an exclusive interview with a private television channel, Thirumavalavan expressed skepticism about Vijay’s intentions. He pointed out that while some may interpret Vijay’s power-sharing announcement as a gesture towards the VCK, it is too early for the party to base any decisions on it. He characterized the move as more of a marketing tactic designed to capture attention, akin to seasonal retail promotions.
“This feels more like a strategic maneuver than a sincere political commitment,” Thirumavalavan remarked. “It’s similar to announcing a festive sale to draw customers into a store. Vijay’s declaration seems aimed at gaining visibility rather than establishing a credible promise of power-sharing.”
Thirumavalavan further noted that this announcement could lead to confusion within existing alliances, particularly within the DMK-led coalition, raising questions about Vijay’s long-term plans.
He also cast doubt on Vijay’s electoral viability, arguing that in Tamil Nadu, a candidate needs to secure at least 30-35% of the vote share to gain power. Thirumavalavan challenged whether Vijay could independently achieve that threshold, suggesting that mere announcements are insufficient to alter the electoral dynamics in his favor.
(With Inputs From Dinamalar)
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