Chennai, 02 June (H.S.) :Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) president Thol Thirumavalavan on Tuesday categorically ruled out contesting the forthcoming Tiruchirappalli East Assembly by-election, ending weeks of speculation that he could enter the Tamil Nadu Assembly through the seat vacated by Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay.

In a video statement, the veteran Dalit leader said he had taken a conscious and firm decision not to participate in any by-election and clarified that he had no interest in seeking ministerial office or legislative positions through such electoral opportunities.

The announcement comes amid intense political discussions following Vijay’s decision to vacate the Tiruchirappalli East constituency after assuming office as Chief Minister. Political observers had speculated that Thirumavalavan could be fielded by the ruling alliance and later inducted into the Cabinet, given the VCK’s support to the TVK-led government.

Addressing the rumours directly, Thirumavalavan revealed that he had indeed been approached regarding the possibility of contesting the bypoll. He also acknowledged that discussions included the prospect of joining the State Cabinet if elected. However, he said he had politely declined the proposal.

“I have conveyed my decision and expressed my gratitude to the Chief Minister for the confidence reposed in me. My position is clear and final. I will not contest this by-election or any future by-elections,” he said.

The VCK chief stressed that public service and social justice activism were not dependent on holding elected office. He said meaningful contributions to society and governance could be made even without occupying positions in the legislature or the executive.

Explaining the VCK’s decision to support the TVK-led government after the Assembly elections, Thirumavalavan said the move was taken after consultations with DMK president M.K. Stalin and other alliance leaders. The VCK, along with the Left parties and the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), extended support to the ruling alliance during the post-election political realignment, while the Congress entered into a separate understanding with the government.

According to him, the decision was guided by larger political considerations, including the need to ensure stability in Tamil Nadu and avoid any possibility of constitutional uncertainty.

Noting that political circumstances had changed after the elections, Thirumavalavan said alliance responsibilities required a broader approach focused on governance and stability. He urged party cadres and supporters not to believe rumours about his participation in future by-elections, reiterating that his decision was irrevocable.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman