The VCK traces its roots to the Dalit Panthers movement inspired by the Black Panther Party in the US. The party blends the ideas of B R Ambedkar on social justice, Periyar E V Ramasamy on rationalism and anti-caste politics, and Marxist ideas on class struggle. It positions itself against what it calls “Sanatan forces”, accusing them of trying to alter the Constitution and deepen social divisions.
Led by Thol Thirumavalavan, the VCK remains the state’s largest Dalit party and draws much of its strength from the charisma and grassroots appeal of its leader. However, despite Thirumavalavan’s long political career and visibility in Tamil Nadu politics, the party has struggled to contest independently.
In the latest election, the VCK sought four seats from the DMK, but was allotted only two reserved seats – both of which it won.
The fractured mandate, however, has handed the VCK a rare opportunity to exert influence far beyond its numbers, a moment Thirumavalavan appears unwilling to let slip away.
