On 8 March 2026, Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) president Thol. Thirumavalavan participated in a memorial event organised by the Tamil Nadu Shia Muslim Jamaat in honour of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

In a post shared on social media, Thirumavalavan said he had attended the programme and delivered a speech at the remembrance event held for Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, whom the organisers described as the leader of the Islamic Ummah and a martyr.

The memorial meeting was conducted under the auspices of the Tamil Nadu Shia Muslim Jamaat, with participants gathering to pay tribute and reflect on Khamenei’s legacy.

Speaking to the audience, he said, “On behalf of the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi, I offer my heartfelt and brave tribute to the late leader, the martyr, Khamenei. When I received the news that he had been assassinated, I was deeply shocked. I did not know what to do, I was left bewildered. Then a call came from brother Bashir Ahmed. He said, ‘A protest march has started on Anna Salai, on Peter’s Road – where are you?’ I said, ‘I am in Chennai, I am coming right away,’ and I left immediately and joined that protest and that rally. This reminded me of when Iraqi President Saddam Hussein was assassinated, I had immediately joined a protest march with Islamic comrades on Anna Salai here.”

He continued, “There is a trend on social media of mocking and ridiculing, ‘What does Thirumavalavan have to do with this?’ Those forces, which have been conditioned to think that if there is a problem for Muslims, only Muslims should fight; if there is a problem for Dalits, only Dalits should fight, they cannot understand that anyone with democratic thinking can raise their voice for the rights and lives of Muslims. It is natural to ask – ‘Why should I condemn the assassination of the Iraqi President? Why should I condemn the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Imam Khamenei?’ There is no dispute about that. But I have not built myself into a sectarian leader. I have not made myself someone who speaks only for a particular caste or only for a particular religion. I am someone who holds the conviction that wherever injustice is committed on this earth, wherever dominance raises its head, we must raise our voice against it to the best of our ability. Iraqi President Saddam Hussein was a great hero who never knelt before American imperialism. He had the courage to say, ‘The American dollar may have value in every country of the world, but in my country, it is just paper.’ He said: ‘I need not fear you. I need not bow my head before you. There is no need for me to kneel at your feet to carry this crown.’ Even at the moment of kissing the hangman’s noose, he accepted it with a smile – that was Saddam Hussein, the great hero of Iraq. No one can deny that.”

He further said, “The courage to resist imperialism belongs not only to leftist parties or leftist countries – it also belongs to Iraq, it belongs to Iran. Those who demonstrated this are the makers of history, Saddam Hussein and Khamenei. Soviet Russia stood against American imperialism, and it broke apart. Cuba is a communist country that stood against American imperialism. Che Guevara stood against it. All of these are communists – firm in their opposition to imperialism. This is how we have studied politics. But those who believe in God, those who have spiritual faith, those who believe that ‘Allah alone is one’ – they too stand firm in opposing imperialism, just as firmly as the leftists. Presidents Saddam Hussein and Khamenei stand as witnesses before us to that fact.”

He continued, “It is on the basis that Viduthalai Chiruthaigal too will stand wherever imperialism is opposed – that is why, when not just Shia Muslims as a single faction, but the entire Islamic community as a whole stood united on Peter’s Road that day, Thirumavalavan also came and stood with them. Opposition to imperialism. Opposition to American arrogance. Opposition to American insolence. Intervening in every country. Interfering in internal affairs. Installing military bases in every country. Threatening nations of the world. As they please, in every country’s elections, getting their preferred people elected as Prime Ministers or Presidents. Creating internal disturbances and destabilising every country’s political stability under the name of ‘people’s revolution’ – all of these are the atrocities that American imperialism is committing today, with the arrogance that there is no one to question them, and the pride that there is no one to oppose them. ‘You should not buy oil from Russia. If you do, we will punish you. We will impose 50% tariffs. If you comply, we will reduce the tariffs.’ Now, permission for 30 days to buy crude oil from Russia – look at how they are puppeteering the Indian government. The courage to oppose American imperialism is not in India. It is not in the Indian Prime Minister. When we think about this, we feel nothing but deep anguish.”

He continued, “Who is he? We do not have the courage to ask – ‘By what authority do you decide from which country we should import crude oil, and with which countries we should make trade agreements?’ That courage existed in President Khamenei. It existed in President Saddam Hussein. This is the problem. The person who stood firmly against imperialism was Imam Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. This is the first reason. The second reason: He approached Israel as his born enemy, in support of Palestine. He stood firm in the conviction that Palestine is the land that must exist on the world map, not Israel, and that he would oppose it until his last breath. Based on that position, he supported armed groups fighting against Israel – that is one of the charges against him. He supported Hamas. He supported Hezbollah. He supported the Houthi organisation. He stood by them, encouraged those forces, and was a major headache for Israel. He questioned Israel’s military might, and was always a great threat to Israel. Just as he was a threat to America, he was equally a threat to Israel – that is the second reason.”

He continued, “The third reason they give: Iran is manufacturing nuclear weapons and that must be stopped. If Iran manufactures nuclear weapons, it will lead the world to destruction. Therefore, they say it is not just about protecting Israel – we must protect all nations of the world, and that is why we are conducting strikes against Iran. But there is no evidence whatsoever that Iran was manufacturing nuclear bombs. The same accusation was made against the Iraqi President too – they assassinated him, dug through every corner, searched every depth, and nowhere could they find any equipment or facility for nuclear bomb production. They could not produce any evidence. It was a completely false accusation. Uranium is used in every country in the world to generate electricity – nuclear power plants are installed everywhere. Which country does not have a nuclear power plant needed for electricity generation? Which country does not have an atomic power plant? Is it only Iran? This is how they spread slander, build public belief, and create opinion against Iran. One of the war strategies, one of the imperialist conspiracies, is to first brand the dog as a rabid dog before killing it. That is one of the strategies they use to destroy Iran – accusing it of attempting to build nuclear weapons, saying ‘we are taking this action to stop that attempt.’ These are the accusations they make. The fourth reason: Iran is one of the foremost nations in crude oil production among the world’s resource-rich countries. They intervene in that trade and commerce through American imperialism – so that Iran does not become an excessively powerful empire. The view exists that they intervene with the intent of preventing that. These are all reasons. All of them are reasons. But fundamentally, the most important reason is that he was a great personality with the courage never to kneel before imperialism. This is what we must understand. On this basis, we must understand and approach Imam Khamenei’s stand.”

He further says, “‘I can do anything. I can infiltrate any country. I can enter your home and eliminate him.’ To that same degree, in India today, we are seeing fascists possessed by religious fanaticism entering the homes of leftists and shooting them. That is how Gauri Lankesh was shot and killed. Professor Narendra Dabholkar was killed. Kalburgi was killed. They entered their homes, attacked and assassinated them and there was no one to question this fascism.

In one country, religious fanatics freely carrying weapons can enter someone’s very home and assassinate them – this situation is rampant here. That is exactly what American imperialism has now done on an international scale – becoming an international thug, taking the position: ‘I can intervene in any country in the world. I can kill any president.’ This is the greatest shame and disgrace to world civilisation. ‘You cannot choose your next Supreme Leader, I will choose him,’ he says. How is this democracy? How outrageously arrogant is this political conduct? We feel anguished wondering – are there no countries in the world to condemn this? There is not a single person to say, ‘How can you say this?’ Therefore, no matter how powerful he may be, when what he has done is an anti-democratic act – we must stand on the side of Khamenei. We must stand on the side of Imam Ali Khamenei. It is the duty of people like us to take this message to the people. Comrades said, Sadiq said, ‘Our Imam Khamenei lived like the Prophet Ali and passed away like the Prophet Husain.’ Those who are the family successors of the Prophet – they have been encountering cruelties, violence, brutalities, and assassinations for generations, for the sake of the welfare of these people, for the welfare of the Islamic community. They call this Islamic terrorism. They call this fundamentalism. It was not the Islamic community that created Bin Laden – it was American imperialism. The actions of Bin Laden have no connection to Islam. It is the product of American imperialism – he himself created it, and he himself had to face that consequence. Islam as a religion did not create anything like that. It has nurtured brotherhood. It preaches love. It preaches the magnificent principle of building a society without discrimination on a global scale. Therefore, against American imperialism that is threatening nations of the world, the righteous struggle of courageous people – we can lead that from Indian soil too. We can turn it into a people’s war. Proof of that is the massive rally held two days ago on Peter’s Road, where tens of thousands of Muslims gathered in the open – I want to place that on record here. In such a field, the field of protecting democracy and justice, Viduthalai Chiruthaigal will always stand with you as a steadfast companion. We will stand. We will stand. With that, I thank you for the opportunity, offer my brave and heartfelt tribute to Ali Khamenei, and conclude.”

தமிழ்நாடு ஷியா முஸ்லிம் ஜமாஅத் சார்பில் நடைபெற்ற இஸ்லாமிய உம்மத்தின் தலைவர் தியாகி ஆயத்துல்லா அலி காமெனி அவர்களின் நினைவேந்தல் நிகழ்வில் கலந்து கொண்டு உரையாற்றினேன். pic.twitter.com/Oz92m3oxAn

— Thol. Thirumavalavan (@thirumaofficial) March 8, 2026

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The post Congress-DMK Ally VCK Chief Thirumavalavan Participates At Khamenei Memorial Held By TN Shia Muslim Jamaat appeared first on The Commune.

Recently released CCTV footage by Polimer News has thrown light on a dramatic incident that unfolded at the Chennai Bar Council, following a car collision reportedly involving politician Thirumavalavan and members of the VCK (Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi) party.

The video begins outside the Bar Council building, where a group of men, identified as VCK members, are seen in white shirts and traditional attire, chasing lawyer Rajeev Gandhi. They enter the premises in a hurry and pursue him through the corridors, creating an atmosphere of tension and panic. The footage continues inside a room filled with desks and chairs where the confrontation leads to a brief scuffle.

The incident was reportedly sparked by a car crash involving Thirumavalavan and lawyer Rajeev Gandhi. Following the accident, the situation escalated when VCK members, angered by the event, confronted the lawyer at the Bar Council. The released video highlights the moments from the exterior approach to the internal pursuit and ensuing altercation, providing a clear narrative of the sequence of events.

“நாக்கை மடித்துக்கொண்டு கன்னத்தில் அறைந்த வி.சி.கவினர்”… திருமாவளவன் கார் மோதிய விவகாரத்தில் வழக்கறிஞர் ராஜீவ் காந்தியை வி.சி.கவினர் கும்பலாக துரத்திகொண்டு பார் கவுன்சிலுக்குள் சென்றபின் நடந்தது என்ன? – வெளியான பரபரப்பு சி.சி.டி.வி காட்சிகள்#Chennai | #VCK | #Thirumavalavan |… pic.twitter.com/PBMcfiyBd5

— Polimer News (@polimernews) October 25, 2025

What Happened

The altercation took place when lawyer Rajiv Gandhi, who was riding his scooter near the High Court premises, came into contact with Thirumavalavan’s car. Video footage from the scene shows a group of VCK members surrounding and attacking the lawyer after the collision.

Rajiv Gandhi later filed a complaint alleging that he was assaulted by VCK cadres at the instigation of Thirumavalavan. His scooter was also damaged during the scuffle.

Rajiv Gandhi was admitted to a private hospital for treatment. His family has alleged that since the night of the incident, the lawyer has received over 500 threatening phone calls, and his personal phone number was circulated online by VCK supporters who allegedly encouraged further harassment.

Following public outrage, Thirumavalavan released a video claiming that the incident was an attempt to provoke him. According to his account, the lawyer deliberately tried to block his car and instigate a confrontation.

However, the lawyer’s brother refuted this version, stating that the available footage clearly shows Thirumavalavan’s vehicle hitting Rajiv Gandhi’s scooter. He said Rajiv merely approached the car to question the driver about the collision when he was attacked by VCK men.

Despite video evidence showing the VCK vehicle hitting the scooter, Thirumavalavan maintains that the episode was orchestrated to provoke him. The VCK chief alleged a “planned conspiracy” behind the episode, blaming members of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for orchestrating it.

He justified his party cadre thrashing the motorist saying “He got beaten up because he stared and not because they knew which caste he belonged to. Are you so arrogant and self-conceited? So they beat him up because he arrogantly stared. They gave him 4 knocks, did not even beat him up well. (crowd cheers). That man pretends to have fainted and has chest pain. What a drama.”

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The post Thirumavalavan Car Hitting Motorist Case: CCTV Shows VCK Goons Chasing Lawyer And Attacking Him Inside Bar Council Premises appeared first on The Commune.

Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) president and Member of Parliament Thol Thirumavalavan on Saturday stated that the party would seek a greater share of seats from the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, while firmly reiterating that the strength and unity of the INDIA bloc alliance will remain paramount.

Thirumavalavan said, “The alliance’s strength is more important than that of individual parties. While we will push for more seats, negotiations will be conducted in a manner that preserves the cohesion of the INDIA bloc.“ He also made a veiled reference to the resurgent BJP-AIADMK alliance, describing it as a right-wing challenge that secular forces must confront collectively.

The VCK chief clarified that while his party remains committed to the idea of a coalition government — its long-standing demand — it would not press for such an arrangement in the 2026 elections. “This election is not about power-sharing, but protecting Tamil Nadu from the communal politics of the BJP,” he said.

“The AIADMK has now aligned itself with the BJP, which openly promotes divisive and communal ideologies,” he said. As one of Tamil Nadu’s most prominent Dalit leaders, Thirumavalavan accused the BJP of undermining the country’s secular fabric. “For the past 11 years, the BJP has consistently spread hatred against Muslims in almost every state. Tamil Nadu had been an exception, but now they are trying to polarise this state as well,” he cautioned.

He further criticised the BJP for failing to address key issues such as social justice, Dalit rights, and livelihood concerns. “Instead of supporting the cause of social equality, the BJP has resorted to religious politics, ignoring the fundamental needs of marginalised communities,” he said. Thirumavalavan concluded by calling on all secular parties to unite and resist the entry of communal politics into Tamil Nadu. “This is not just a political fight. It is a battle to protect the ideals of social justice and secularism,” he said

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The post VCK To Seek More Seats From DMK For 2026 TN Assembly Polls appeared first on The Commune.

A video went viral on social media, allegedly showing Vikraman, a Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi executive and former contestant of Bigg Boss Tamil 6, dressed as a woman and sexually harassing a young man. However, Vikraman has refuted these claims, stating that the video was taken during the shooting of a movie and has been misrepresented to defame him.

The controversy erupted after the video surfaced online, with users alleging that Vikraman was caught red-handed engaging in inappropriate behavior. The claims gained further traction when reports surfaced that director Rajumurugan’s wife had filed a complaint regarding illegal activities in the apartment complex where Vikraman was residing. These rumors linked Vikraman to the alleged activities and accused him of wrongdoing.

In response to the accusations, Vikraman issued a statement on the social media platform X, asserting that he would pursue strict legal action against those spreading baseless allegations. He clarified that the video was part of a film shoot and had been taken out of context to malign his reputation. He wrote, “Strict legal action will be taken against those who spread defamation without any basis based on something that happened during a movie shoot. My heartfelt thanks to the management of Polymer Television for acting ethically and taking prompt action.”

சினிமா படப்பிடிப்பு சம்மந்தமாக நடந்த ஒன்றை வைத்து அடிப்படை ஆதாரமின்றி அவதூறு பரப்புவோர் மீது சட்டப்படி கடுமையான நடவடிக்கை எடுக்கப்படும்.

அறத்தின்படி செயல்பட்டு துரிதமாக நடவடிக்கை எடுத்த பாலிமர் தொலைக்காட்சி நிர்வாகத்திற்கு மனமார்ந்த நன்றி.

— Vikraman R (@RVikraman) March 9, 2025

Despite his explanation, social media discussions continued, with some individuals insisting that Vikraman was involved in a case where a 23-year-old youth was allegedly injured. Others suggested that Vikraman attempted to suppress the video by threatening those who recorded it and allegedly offering a large sum of money to destroy it.

Amid the growing controversy, Vikraman’s supporters urged him to release an official statement from the film’s production team, clarifying thecontext of the video. They emphasized that doing so would help counter the misinformation and clear his name.

Further, Vikraman’s wife has reportedly filed a complaint at the Tiruvekkadu police station, seeking legal action against those who have misrepresented the video and spread false allegations. She said that the video is related to a film shoot that she and her husband were working on.

#Newsupdate | விக்ரமன் மனைவி புகார் #BiggBosscelebrity | #Vikraman | #harassment | #complaint | #Newstamil24x7 pic.twitter.com/aw1ckSNQtX

— News Tamil 24×7 (@NewsTamilTV24x7) March 10, 2025

“We had to film a video related to a shooting in the old house we lived in. It was taken for shooting purpose when I was away from town. That video has been mischaracterized and somebody has spread it to defame.”, she said.

When a reporter asked about the viral video having no camera or characteristics of a film shoot Vikraman’s wife said “I didn’t say it was a shoot. I said it’s a video related to shoot. It’s not a film shoot. We tried to do a test video for a shoot. That time I was in Madurai. So, I asked him (Vikraman) to shoot the video himself and send.”

தீயாய் பரவிய வீடியோ.. பிக்பாஸ் விக்ரமனின் மனைவி பரபரப்பு பேட்டி#Chennai | #Vikraman pic.twitter.com/uyMiDg3Nnv

— PuthiyathalaimuraiTV (@PTTVOnlineNews) March 10, 2025

(With inputs from Tamil Samayam)

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The post VCK Functionary Vikraman Refutes Allegations Of Sexual Assault, His Wife Says Viral Video Is Related To Film Shoot appeared first on The Commune.

In a significant political development, Aadhav Arjuna, Deputy General Secretary of Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), has announced his resignation from the party. In a letter addressed to party leader Thol. Thirumavalavan, Arjuna expressed his gratitude for the opportunities he had received within the organization while highlighting his reasons for stepping down.

Arjuna stated that he joined VCK as a strategist and later became a basic member, before being elevated to the position of Deputy General Secretary by Thirumavalavan himself. He acknowledged the influence of the party’s policies in shaping his understanding of caste structures and their pervasive impact on society. “I am forever indebted to VCK for formulating policies against caste oppression and enabling me to act against it,” he wrote.

While affirming his alignment with VCK’s policies and positions, Arjuna noted that certain public criticisms he had raised on issues of public interest had sparked unnecessary discussions. He emphasized that he did not want these controversies to create a rift between him and the party leadership. “Given that I have already been suspended from the party for six months, I believe it is better to avoid any futile debates,” he explained.

Arjuna further reiterated his commitment to the principles of caste abolition, social justice, and political rights for marginalized communities. Drawing inspiration from Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, he pledged to continue his political journey advocating for democracy, equality, and justice, even as he leaves the party.

“I have taken this difficult decision to leave the party with a heavy heart, considering the circumstances of the times,” Arjuna stated. He expressed his gratitude and affection for Thirumavalavan and his fellow party members who had guided him in his political journey.

As Arjuna moves forward, he affirmed his resolve to work against religious majoritarianism, women’s oppression, and corruption, all while upholding the values he shared with VCK.

This resignation marks a notable moment in Tamil Nadu’s political landscape, particularly given Arjuna’s significant role within the VCK in recent years. The party has yet to issue an official response to his decision.

பெறுநர்;
எழுச்சித் தமிழர் திரு.தொல். திருமாவளவன்,
தலைவர், விடுதலைச் சிறுத்தைகள் கட்சி,

பொருள்; விடுதலைச் சிறுத்தைகள் கட்சியிலிருந்து முழுமையாக விலகுவது தொடர்பாக,

நான் என்றும் மதிக்கும் அன்புத் தலைவருக்கு வணக்கம்,

விடுதலைச் சிறுத்தைகள்… pic.twitter.com/kNdZVtB4aT

— Aadhav Arjuna (@AadhavArjuna) December 15, 2024

Aadhav Arjun’s resignation comes following his new-found bonhomie with actor and part-time politician Vijay who heads Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam.

He had organized a book launch event, “Ambedkar: A Leader for All,” along with Vikatan Publications to commemorate Dr BR Ambedkar on his death anniversary on December 6, 2024.

Initially, VCK Chief Thol Thirumavalavan and TVK leader Vijay were expected to share the stage. However, Thirumavalavan withdrew from the event, reportedly under pressure from the ruling DMK, leading to speculation about intra-party dynamics.

During his speech at the event, Vijay launched a scathing critique of ruling DMK government, accusing them of failing to uphold Ambedkar’s vision for social justice. He lamented the plight of Dalits, stating, “If Ambedkar were alive today, he would hang his head in shame,” pointing to the continued marginalization of Dalit communities.

Aadhav Arjuna too attacked the DMK government in his speech which had caused a rift in the VCK.

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The post Aadhav Arjuna Quits VCK appeared first on The Commune.

Creating a further drift in the DMK alliance, VCK Deputy General Secretary Aadhav Arjuna called for the empowerment of Dalit communities and the dismantling of entrenched power structures. Speaking at a housewarming event in Madurai, Arjuna stressed the importance of shifting political leadership to ensure Dalit people have the authority to shape their own destinies.

“We are working to create a political movement that can challenge and dismantle oppressive mindsets,” Arjuna stated. “The fight against honor killings must begin in schools, and we need to make public the data on over 10 lakh acres of Panchami lands that should be allocated to affected communities.”

Arjuna also criticized the overemphasis on caste identity, responding to social media discussions about his own caste. “I don’t even know what my caste is,” he said, emphasizing that his alliance with VCK leader Thol Thirumavalavan is based on shared values and principles, not caste. “Dalit politics is not about caste; it’s about humanity,” he added.

Criticizing the DMK indirectly, he said, “We have been waiting for the problems to come, only with problems solutions will arrive. It’s enough being quiet and patient. We’ve been waiting quietly for over a thousand years. They claim this is an ideological alliance, a power alliance and so if that’s the case, then give us the power. Shouldn’t the power given to Dalit people, then this ideological alliance is not a power-sharing alliance. Here, one alone not born to rule.”

"அமைதியா பொறுமையாக இருந்தது எல்லாம் போதும்.. பிரச்சனை வருவதை தான் எதிர்பார்க்கிறோம்.. பிரச்சனை வந்தால் தான் தீர்வு கிடைக்கும்.. அண்ணன் திருமாவளவனின் கனவுகள் கூடிய விரைவில் நிறைவேறும்.." – விசிக துணை பொதுச்செயலாளர் ஆதவ் அர்ஜுன் பேச்சு#Madurai | #VCK | #Thirumavalavan |… pic.twitter.com/hwMheadAuH

— Polimer News (@polimernews) November 20, 2024

Arjuna continued to advocate for the realization of Thirumavalavan’s vision, expressing his confidence in its success. “Thirumavalavan’s dreams will be realized soon,”

Arjuna concluded by invoking the teachings of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, emphasizing the power of knowledge over violence and urged to  creating a movement based on education and patience, and when the time comes, will act decisively and challenge the hegemony and build a just society.

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The post ‘One Alone Not Born To Rule’, VCK’s Aadhav Arjuna Slams DMK For Failing To Share Power, Advocates For Dalit Empowerment appeared first on The Commune.

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.

(With Inputs From Dinamalar)

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Durga Ashvathaman, the wife of Tamil Nadu BJP State Secretary A Ashvathaman, has filed a complaint with the National Commission for Women against Vanni Arasu, the State Deputy General Secretary of the VCK party. The complaint alleges that Arasu made indecent comments and personal attacks against both Ashvathaman and Durga, constituting personal attacks and defamation of women.

The exchange began with VCK Deputy General Secretary Vanni Arasu, who suggested that his party chief, Thirumavalavan, should be positioned as Chief Minister. Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting L. Murugan criticized Thirumavalavan’s aspirations, claiming he had no right to discuss social justice and that his dream of becoming Chief Minister was unrealistic because he was “playing a double game.” Murugan questioned Thirumavalavan’s status as a Dalit leader, pointing out that he had filed a Supreme Court case challenging reservation benefit for the Arunthathiyar community, asserting that he is merely a leader of the VCK party.

In this debate about reservations, NTK chief Seeman added fuel to fire by aiding support for Thirumavalavan, questioning why he couldn’t aspire to be Chief Minister when Murugan had become a Union Minister. When BJP State Secretary A. Ashvathaman was asked for his thoughts, he defended Murugan, noting that Murugan holds a doctorate in law, while sarcastically questioning the qualifications of Thirumavalavan, implying he was an expert in “mass conversion” instead.

In response to Ashvathaman’s remarks, Vanni Arasu resorted to personal attacks, making disrespectful comments about Ashvathaman’s personal life, including suggesting he should first be a better husband. Hurt by these indecent remarks and the damage to her family’s reputation, Durga Ashvathaman filed a complaint with the National Commission for Women against Vanni Arasu for personal attacks and defamation.

Ashvathaman criticized VCK party chief Thirumavalavan on his official X account, stating, “If the State Deputy General Secretary of a party writes like a scribbler on a toilet wall, then just imagine how the party’s cadres (Nandu Sindu) will be! Vanni Arasu (@VanniKural) has proved the true nature of the VCK party. Is this your upbringing @thirumaofficial? My wife Durga Ashvathaman, has filed a complaint against VCK Party’s State Deputy General Secretary Vanni Arasu in the National Commission for Women for ‘personal attack and spreading defamation against dignity of women’.

In her letter to the Chairperson of the National Commission for Women, Durga Ashvathaman requested action against Vanni Arasu, the State Deputy General Secretary of the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Party (VCK), citing offenses such as personal attacks and the spreading of derogatory statements that undermine women’s dignity.

She stated, “l am a teacher. My husband Shri. A. Ashvathaman is an Advocate practising at Madras High Court and the State Secretary of the Bharatiya Janata Party, Tamil Nadu. He has many political enemies because of his active participation in politics. But no one makes a personal attack on him. There is a party in Tamil Nadu called the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) means Freedom Cheetahs Party. As the name of the party itself has a wild animal’s name, their activities are also like that. Since that party does not have an individual ideology, it resorts to ‘individual personal attacks’ on others.”

“Vanniarasu, who is the Deputy General Secretary of VCK, is deliberately spreading baseless and false allegations against me and my family. He says I have filed a Dowry Harassment Complaint against my husband and he says many other unprintable slanders. He continues to spread these disgusting false slanders on television and social media. He also posts our wedding photos on social media and posts defamatory comments on them. It is causing me great grief. These people, who do not dare to oppose my husband ideologically, are doing the dirty and despicable job of spreading slander about the family and the women in the house. My husband and I got married in 2014. We have two children. For the couples getting married in our circle, the elders would show me and my husband as an example and wish them to live like us. But, The above-mentioned person is spreading slander against us for his cheap political gains.” She added.

“My husband is doing many good things for people. He has done various public works like the Cuddalore Pondicherry Railway track, Ulundurpet Railway Stoppage, he fought and got justice for the worker who was killed in Cuddalore Cashew Mill by DMK’s Ex-MP TRV Ramesh, So he continues to work despite various threats. He filed a complaint against VCK’s leader Thirumavalavan in the Manu Smriti issue and an FIR has been filed based on his complaint. Last month in Bhuvanagiri, near Chidambaram, an innocent family who had come from Karaikal for the treatment of their daughter’s stroke, was victimized by VCK’s goondas. My husband continued to raise his voice for them and he made Tamilnadu police to file an FIR against VCK goondas. The family came to meet my husband and thanked him. Now, unable to tolerate this matter, the above-mentioned Vanniarasu has again started spreading his slanders (https://x.com/Vannikural/status/1848401051449495958). | came to know that there are many cases against the above-mentioned person including murder attempt murder passport forgery. So, the above-mentioned person Vanniarasu is a habitual offender,” she added.

“If such despicable acts are allowed, it will become their routine to try to stop the people in public life, by those cheap tricks like ‘focusing on the women of their family and spreading slander’. Therefore, | request you to take appropriate action against that person, Vanniarasu, for spreading unnecessary and false derogatory defamations against me and my family,” she finally said.

கழிவறை சுவற்றில் கிறுக்குபவன் போல, ஒரு கட்சியின் மாநில துணை பொதுசெயலாளரே எழுதுகிறார் என்றால் பின் அந்த கட்சியின் நண்டு சிண்டுகள் எப்படி இருக்கும் என்பதை யோசித்துபாருங்கள்!

விசிக கட்சியின் தன்மை என்ன என்பதை வனியரசு (@VanniKural) நிரூபித்துவிட்டார். .

இதுதான் உங்கள் வளர்ப்பா… pic.twitter.com/VmXrnmicwK

— Ashvathaman Allimuthu (@asuvathaman) October 22, 2024

On 21 October 2024, Vanni Arasu via his official X account stated, “Do you know who he is? @Ashvathaman, first you should develop the ability to be a good husband to your wife.”

“Case No:1 On 14.2.2016, accused Ashvathaman filed a Habeas corpus petition in the Madras High Court, claiming that his father-in-law had forcibly taken away his wife Durga and eight-month-old child from their home, and his whereabouts are unknown. This Habeas corpus petition came up for hearing on 22.03.2016. The public prosecutor presented new information to the court, stating that no one forcibly took away the wife of accused Ashvathaman. The court was informed that the dowry complaint filed by his wife against Ashvathaman is pending in the Pattukottai All Women Police Station and the case is pending in the Pattukkottai court seeking divorce, while he is being beaten and harassed for asking for dowry.” He alleged.

“The judges heard this and said that this matter is entirely a family dispute. They dismissed the Habeas corpus petition of Accused Ashwathaman, stating that they cannot resolve the matter with a Habeas corpus petition. This accused, Ashvathaman, was the one who harassed and beat his wife, who was with an eight-month-old baby, for asking for dowry. He is now incarnated as a person fighting for women’s rights.” He stated.

“Case No:2 Subramanian and Dhanapakiyam, a couple from Mathiyanur Colony in Ulundurpet Taluk, Kallakurichi District. They belong to the Adi Dravidian sect. They wanted to enroll their son, Sivanandan, in a teacher training school, so they went to the Arul Teacher Training Institute, which is run by his father, Allimuthu and accused Ashvathaman. On 13.6.2007, they paid 70,000 rupees and admitted their son. It was only later that they discovered the teacher training institute run by accused Ashvathaman and his father had inadequate facilities and was operating without proper accreditation. Consequently, the student’s mother, Dhanapakiyam, approached the institution to request a refund of the money and a transfer certificate.” He further stated

“They have been dragging their feet for a long time and are promised Dhanapakiyam  to give it on 4.1.2008. Ashvathaman and his father Allimuthu were present in the office. Allimuthu grabbed the saree of Dhanapakiyam and slapped her on the cheek saying, ‘Para thevdiya (a caste prostitute), we didn’t ask you to come to give money, we asked you to get rid of it’.  Dhanapakiyam fought to file a complaint against Allimuthu, who had transgressed saying, “If you ask for money like this, I will not let you go alive.” He further alleged.

“At that time, Ashvathaman, who was in the room, saying, ‘Only if we leave your alive, you will report to the police’, took an iron hammer and hit her on the head with the intention of killing and said, ‘get lost’. In that her skull was fractured and blood flowed out. On hearing the screams of Dhanapakiyam, people came inside rescued her and admitted to a hospital in a life-threatening condition. In this regard a case has been registered in Ulundurpet police station regarding this incident with number 12/08. Allimuthu is the first accused in this case and Ashvathaman is the second accused.” He added.

He further stated that a case has been registered against Allimuthu under Sections 294, 323, 506(2) of the Indian Penal Code and the Prevention of Violence Against Women Act. Additionally, a case of attempted murder has been filed against accused Ashvathaman under Section 307, which is still pending. Ashvathaman is allegedly delaying the trial by leveraging his authority and threatening Dhanapakiyam’s family with a rowdy gang, claiming his connections to the BJP and demanding that the case against him be withdrawn.

Fearing for their safety, the Dhanapakiyam family wrote a letter to State President Murugan, whom they see as a protector of Dalits. In the letter, they expressed that Aswathaman threatened them, stating that he would kill them with men from the Ottar caste, who are stonebreakers from his father’s lineage and also warned that if he sought help from the Vanniyar caste on his mother’s side, they would not be allowed to live in peace.

இவன் யாருன்னு தெரியுமா?@asuvathaman
முதலில் கட்டிய மனைவிக்கு
கனவனாக தகுதியை வளர்த்துக்கொள்ள வேண்டுமடா…

வழக்கு எண் 1:
கடந்த 14.2.2016 அன்று தனது மனைவி துர்கா மற்றும் எட்டு மாத குழந்தையை, அவரது மாமனார் வலுக்கட்டாயமாக வீட்டிலிருந்து அழைத்துச் சென்றுவிட்டதாகவும், அவர்கள் இப்போது… https://t.co/SOVqT1Kni2 pic.twitter.com/N6vp8QpaWz

— வன்னி அரசு (@VanniKural) October 21, 2024

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The post BJP TN Leader Ashvathaman’s Wife Files Complaint With NCW Against VCK Leader Vanni Arasu For Personal Attacks appeared first on The Commune.

Once again, the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) has indirectly expressed its displeasure with its ally, the ruling DMK. Deputy General Secretary Vanni Arasu has accused the DMK of failing to address caste-related atrocities in the state. He lamented that while VCK chief and Chidambaram MP Thol. Thirumavalavan is more than capable of serving as the Chief Minister, the alliance remains reluctant to support him for the position, believing that doing so would alienate voters from dominant castes.

In a recent interview with a private news channel, Deputy General Secretary Vanni Arasu was asked about his concerns regarding the DMK, his alliance partner. He openly criticized the DMK’s handling of caste-related issues, citing incidents in Vengaivayal and Melpathi. He suggested that the government should take greater interest in abolishing caste distinctions and implementing laws against honor killings.

Vanni Arasu said, “In caste-related issues like Vengaivayal or Melpathi, where people are not allowed inside the temple, today all over Tamil Nadu there are caste-related issues. We are asking to enact an act against honor killings, which they have not done. People like me think that this government should focus more on caste eradication and work on it.”. He later accused the DMK of treating these issues lightly, warning that this approach could exacerbate the problems.

When the host asked whether anyone was trying to prevent others from attaining prominent positions based on caste, to that Vanni Arasu lamented although his party chief, Thirumavalavan, is fully capable, the alliance is unwilling to propose his name, which has sparked considerable controversy.

Vanni Arasu said, “Today in Tamil Nadu, I can challenge and even argue. Can you suggest an alternative who is as qualified as our leader Thirumavalavan to be the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, considering everything? In today’s situation, he is a leader who can speak on everything – every problem, whether it be Iran and Iraq issues, other worldly issues, Mullai Periyar issue, Eelam related issues, state rights issues, central government related issues, or handling central government matters. If there is a qualified and talented leader today, it is him. However, why people are hesitating to propose him as the chief minister. Even in the Makkal Nala Kootani (People’s Welfare Front), our party’s general secretary Ravi Kumar proposed that the chief minister candidate should be from our party. However, the Makkal Nala Kootani itself did not accept it, hesitating due to the rigidity of the caste structure and the attitude that other castes will not vote. This is a big threat here.”

Then the host asked the General Secretary about the VCK’s aspirations. He replied that the party’s dream is to see Thirumavalavan become Chief Minister. He subtly hinted that the initial plan was for Thirumavalavan to take the role of Deputy Chief Minister, but instead, DMK scion Udhayanidhi Stalin was appointed. By stating this, he indirectly expressed the VCK’s displeasure with the appointment and reaffirmed their desire for their leader to be the Chief Minister. He ridiculed the position of Deputy Chief Minister, describing it as merely an honorary role not specified in the constitution, and expressed his disdain for it.

Vanni Arasu said, “VCK’s dream or our dream is to see our chief come to power and become the chief minister, not a deputy chief minister. We wish he should become chief minister because the position of deputy chief minister is honorary and not specified in the constitution. Chief minister is the goal and its has the power.”

Later, he criticized the DMK’s policy, stating that while the VCK advocates for the prohibition of liquor, the DMK’s claim that it has implemented a billing system is misguided. He emphasized that the government should work towards abolishing liquor altogether.

This accusation comes against the backdrop of growing discontent among the DMK’s alliance partners, including the VCK, Congress, and the Communists, who are dissatisfied with the DMK’s policy decisions since it came to power in 2021. The rift has become more apparent following reports that suggested DMK scion Udhayanidhi Stalin is set to become the next Deputy Chief Minister. Later, with his appointment, the allies have been openly criticizing the party at every opportunity.

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Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) chief Thirumavalavan has emphasized that those who surrendered in connection with the murder of  Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief K Armstrong are not the actual perpetrators. He urged the DMK government to apprehend the real culprits to avoid tarnishing its reputation.

However, Chief Minister MK Stalin in his social media post condoling Armstrong’s death said that those involved in the murder have already been arrested.

பகுஜன் சமாஜ் கட்சியின் மாநிலத் தலைவர் திரு. ஆம்ஸ்ட்ராங் அவர்கள் படுகொலை செய்யப்பட்ட சம்பவம் பேரதிர்ச்சியையும் பெரும் வருத்தத்தையும் அளிக்கிறது. கொலையில் சம்பந்தப்பட்டவர்களைக் காவல்துறை இரவோடு இரவாகக் கைது செய்திருக்கிறது.

திரு. ஆம்ஸ்ட்ராங் அவர்களை இழந்து வாடும் அவரது கட்சியினர்,…

— M.K.Stalin (@mkstalin) July 6, 2024

Stalin said “Bahujan Samaj Party State President Mr. Armstrong’s assassination is shocking and deeply saddening. The police arrested those involved in the murder overnight.”

Armstrong, the president of BSP in Tamil Nadu, was fatally assaulted by unknown attackers in Chennai recently. His body underwent a post-mortem examination at Rajiv Gandhi Hospital in Chennai, and Thirumavalavan paid his respects on 6 July 2024. Following this, Thirumavalavan spoke to reporters outside the hospital, advocating for Armstrong’s body to be publicly displayed at a private school in Perambur, a request that received approval from the Tamil Nadu government.

Thirumavalavan also mentioned the BSP’s wish to cremate Armstrong’s remains at the party office premises, supported by the Viduthalai Chiruthigal Katchi. He urged the state government to facilitate this request. Finally, Thirumavalavan emphasized the need for a thorough investigation to identify and apprehend the true masterminds and perpetrators behind Armstrong’s murder, stressing that the surrender of certain individuals should not prematurely conclude the investigation.

Speaking with the reporters VCK chief Thirumavalavan stated, “The individuals who surrendered in the case of Bahujan Samaj Party Tamil Nadu president Armstrong’s murder are not the true criminals. Therefore, the authorities must arrest those truly responsible for the crime.”

Later he said, “Steps should be taken to find the real culprits behind this murder. Those who have surrendered now are not real criminals. All those involved in this murder, including those who incited them, should be arrested. You should not stop the investigation by saying ‘we have arrested the real culprits behind this, ‘ you should arrest all those involved in this murder, including those who incited them. We are making this request to the Tamil Nadu government on behalf of the Bahujan Samaj Party, the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi and other organisation gathered here.”

Thirumavalavan further said Armstrong has voiced public concerns. Due to this, enmity and animosity arose for him from here and there. The police know this very well. Therefore, the police should have given him protection. Now the police should be vigilant in arresting criminals. We urge you not to be indifferent. Dalits continue to be murdered in Tamil Nadu, especially in the southern districts. Today a political leader was murdered near his home. I would like to inform that if the government fails to stop such mercenary gangs, casteist and murderous gangs, it will lead to chaos. This is a challenge to the police and the Tamil Nadu government.

#BREAKING | சரணடைந்தவர்கள் உண்மையான குற்றவாளிகள் இல்லை – திருமாவளவன் #Armstrong | #BahujanSamajParty | #BSP | #Murder | #Chennai | #Thirumavalavan pic.twitter.com/74uXVcQVZa

— PuthiyathalaimuraiTV (@PTTVOnlineNews) July 6, 2024

K Armstrong, the Tamil Nadu state unit president of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), was brutally murdered on 5 July 2024 evening near Perambur in Chennai. He was attacked by a gang of six assailants while chatting with friends and supporters near his residence. The attackers, armed with machetes and sickles, threatened anyone who tried to intervene, causing Armstrong’s friends to flee. His family rushed to the scene upon hearing his cries, only to find him grievously wounded and lying in a pool of blood. He was quickly taken to a nearby private hospital where doctors pronounced him dead.

According to police sources, the gang arrived on three motorcycles around 7 pm, carried out the attack, and fled before supporters could respond. Senior police officials including Deputy Commissioner I Eswaran and Assistant Commissioner Praveen Kumar visited the crime scene. A special investigative team under Sembium Inspector of Police Chiranjeevi has been formed to apprehend the suspects, and security in the area has been tightened to prevent further violence.

The police are exploring the possibility of a rivalry with a criminal from North Chennai, currently incarcerated, as a motive for the murder. In August 2023, Arcot Suresh and his associate Madhavan were assaulted by a gang near Pattinampakkam in Chennai. During the incident, Arcot Suresh tragically lost his life, while Madhavan survived. Five months later, Madhavan himself was killed in another attack by a separate gang. Ponnai Balu, the brother of Arcot Suresh, has been implicated in the murder of BSP leader Thennarsu back in 2015. His other brother, known as bomb Saravanan, is suspected in the murder of Arcot Suresh last year, according to police sources. Currently, Ponnai Balu is accused in the murder of BSP leader Armstrong. He is the sibling of Arcot Suresh, a notorious criminal who was slain by a rival gang in Chennai the previous year. Chennai police have arrested Arcot Balu, along with seven others, in connection with Armstrong’s murder a senior police official confirmed.

Armstrong, a lawyer by profession, had a troubled past with previous criminal cases, though his legal troubles reportedly ceased a decade ago. He rose to prominence through his association with former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati, organizing rallies in Chennai and establishing himself as a prominent Dalit leader despite the BSP’s limited influence in Tamil Nadu. So far, 8 suspects have been arrested.

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The post VCK Chief Thirumavalavan Urges DMK Govt To Find Real Culprits In Armstrong Murder Case While CM Stalin Says Those Involved Have Already Been Arrested appeared first on The Commune.