Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) founder Thol. Thirumavalavan on Thursday (May 14, 2026) distanced himself from reports of backroom discussions on making him Tamil Nadu’s first Chief Minister from the Scheduled Castes, saying he was unaware of any internal deliberations within the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) and other parties.

His remarks come a day after AIADMK rebel leader C.Ve. Shanmugam alleged that AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami had blocked an opportunity for an SC Chief Minister. Mr. Thirumavalavan said he had only heard from some close associates that such talks were taking place. The deliberations reportedly took place in the wake of the fractured mandate in the recent Assembly elections.

“I do not know what discussions took place within the AIADMK or what conversations happened behind the scenes. Some of my close friends informed me that such talks were going on, that is all,” he said.

Mr. Thirumavalavan also rejected allegations that the VCK had delayed its political decision to bargain with alliances. He reiterated the party had consistently maintained it would decide its stand after consultations within its high-level committee and in line with the Left parties’ position.

“There has been no confusion in our stand. I had clearly said from the beginning that we would discuss the matter internally and decide accordingly,” he said.

The VCK leader said the media had amplified the issue, while leaders within the AIADMK themselves were now publicly speaking about the possibility of having projected him as Chief Minister. He added he remained part of the DMK alliance and was not associated with any other front.

Asked whether the AIADMK had independently explored the idea of projecting him as Chief Minister without formally approaching him, Mr. Thirumavalavan said such questions should be directed to the DMK or AIADMK leadership.