While C. Joseph Vijay was running from pillar to post to assimilate the support of as many smaller players as possible, the two Dravidian majors were not sitting idle either, an earlier report had said. The possibility of a government headed by Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) chief Thol Thirumavalavan—backed by the DMK and AIADMK—was floated as an alternative to keep the TVK away from power.
The AMMK and IUML refusing to join Vijay's TVK elongated the drama, as the VCK's backing became key to the debutants crossing the simple majority mark. It was amidst reports of the Congress and Left parties having decided to back Vijay that the news of the Dravidian giants trying to lure Thirumavalavan with the CM post emerged.
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However, the AIADMK has now categorically denied working on a plot to make the VCK chief the CM of Tamil Nadu or trying to win over its arch-rival. For its part, VCK General Secretary D. Ravikumar also denied that his party has made any demands, including the CM's post, with any alliances, NDTV said in a report. Citing unnamed sources within Edappadi Palaniswami's party, the news channel added that talks with the DMK still continue in a bid to stop Vijay from forming the government.
Earlier, VCK leader Vanniarasu, a close aide of the party founder, gave a clear indication that the party was keen on getting a share in power, which the TVK is prepared to offer.
It may be noted that Thirumavalavan decided against contesting from the Kattumannarkoil constituency at the last minute after having announced his decision to make a return to state politics. There were speculations that the Chidambaram MP decided to enter the poll fray keeping in mind a possible hung Assembly scenario in Tamil Nadu. However, he decided not to contest later as the question of "power hunger" was thrown at him from many quarters.
“The opinion that I am contesting the election anticipating a hung Assembly is wrong. It insults my intention. Hence, I am changing my strategy,” he said.
