TVK Rose by Tapping Discontent Against DMK, Says CPI(M) Leader

P Shanmugam, state secretary of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)], has stated that the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) effectively capitalised on public discontent against the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) to rise to power. The CPI(M), which extended outside support to the TVK-led coalition government, disputed the narrative that the TVK is merely a 'reel government' rather than a real one.

In a note titled 'New Political Climate and the Stand of the CPI(M)' published in the party’s mouthpiece, Mr Shanmugam said the people felt the adverse impact of neo-liberal policies pursued by both the BJP and DMK governments. Concerns included concentration of wealth, exploitation of mineral resources, corruption, and crimes against women and children. The TVK highlighted the DMK government’s failure to fulfil promises and delays in implementation, he added.

Mr Shanmugam noted that the TVK, which fell short of a majority, had in its letter to the CPI(M) seeking support listed firm commitments to secularism and inclusive governance. 'They reiterated those commitments when we met them. Taking all these factors into consideration, we decided to support the TVK government,' he said.

He clarified that the CPI(M) would welcome welfare measures and policies that benefit the people, but would oppose any anti-people measures. He also stated that the party had no illusion that winning a few seats would fully resolve problems, but legislatures provide a platform to raise issues and expose wrongdoings.

Reacting to criticism from DMK supporters, Mr Shanmugam said the proposal for an AIADMK government with DMK support was driven by an agenda to prevent any non-Dravidian party from coming to power. He questioned whether that truly served Tamil Nadu’s interests. He pointed to youth movements in Nepal and Sri Lanka, asking if such change should be denied in Tamil Nadu.