Thirumavalavan Rejects “Payasam of Compromise” – Vijay Launches Ambedkar Book in Chennai Today
The launch event for the book “Ezhilaraikum Thalaivar Ambedkar” (“Ambedkar: A Leader for All”) is taking place today in Chennai. Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) leader Thol. Thirumavalavan will not attend the event. Actor and Tamilaga Vetrikalagam leader Vijay will launch the book, and retired High Court Judge Chandru will receive the first copy instead of Thirumavalavan.
Vijay’s Political Journey
Actor Vijay ventured into politics earlier this year by launching the Tamilaga Vetrikalagam in February. Initially, there was speculation that his party would contest the April Lok Sabha elections, but Vijay clarified that his focus is on the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections.
October 27: Vijay’s First Political Conference
At his maiden political conference, Vijay criticized the DMK government, alleging widespread corruption, but notably refrained from attacking the AIADMK. This raised questions about his political alliances, as he positioned the DMK as his primary opponent without naming them directly.
Vijay also addressed Thirumavalavan’s long-standing demand for representation in power-sharing and hinted at considering it, which sparked a significant debate.
Thirumavalavan’s Absence: A Political Statement
Initially, it was announced that Thirumavalavan would share the stage with Vijay during the book launch. However, the VCK leader has now chosen not to attend the event.
Reasons for the Absence
- VCK Deputy General Secretary Vanniyarasu clarified that Thirumavalavan refused to share the stage with Vijay, whom he referred to as someone promoting a “compromise payasam” ideology.
- Rumors suggested that Thirumavalavan skipped the event under DMK’s pressure, given the ongoing DMK-VCK alliance. However, Vanniyarasu denied this and stated, “Thirumavalavan cannot be directed or controlled by anyone. He firmly stands by his principles.”
Political Tensions Between Vijay and Thirumavalavan
The differences between Vijay and Thirumavalavan underline a growing political cold war. Vijay’s anti-DMK rhetoric has put him at odds with the DMK’s ally, VCK.
Vijay’s Strategy:
- Vijay is creating a platform aimed at establishing himself as an alternative political force. His attacks on the DMK, coupled with his silence on the AIADMK, have sparked speculation about his potential alliances.
Thirumavalavan’s Principles:
- As a staunch advocate for Ambedkarite values and social justice, Thirumavalavan views Vijay’s political entry with skepticism. He refused to associate with a leader whose ideological stance he deems inconsistent with Ambedkarite principles.
The Book Launch Event
Despite these controversies, the book launch is proceeding as planned. Vijay will release the book, and retired Justice Chandru will receive it. The absence of Thirumavalavan, a significant figure in Ambedkarite politics, has added fuel to the political discourse.
Broader Implications
This episode reflects the evolving dynamics in Tamil Nadu politics:
- Vijay is striving to carve a niche by challenging the DMK’s dominance while strategically avoiding direct confrontation with the AIADMK.
- Thirumavalavan, though aligned with the DMK, is maintaining his ideological autonomy, signaling his unwillingness to compromise on core principles.
This tension between Vijay and Thirumavalavan will likely influence Tamil Nadu’s political landscape significantly in the coming years.
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