Watch out for BJP’s hidden political motives, Thirumavalavan advises Vijay

Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) president and Member of Parliament Thol. Thirumavalavan on Monday cautioned actor and TVK party leader Vijay against falling prey to the BJP’s “hidden political motives”.

Mr. Thirumavalavan told presspersons that his party would provide ₹50,000 each as relief to families of the 41 persons who died in the stampede at Mr. Vijay’s political rally in Karur on September 27. He said he would meet the bereaved families on October 11. “We will hold a candlelight vigil at the VCK headquarters in Chennai to pay homage to the victims,” he said.

Commending Chief Minister M.K. Stalin for handling the situation with “magnanimity,” the VCK leader criticised AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami, the BJP, and the RSS for allegedly attempting to “divert attention and gain political mileage” from the tragedy. “Such an approach is not healthy for Tamil Nadu politics,” he said.

Mr. Thirumavalavan clarified that his party harboured no personal animosity. “We do not want him to be arrested or jailed. But he should feel remorse and express solidarity with the victims’ families. Our criticism is only to point out that he has, knowingly or unknowingly, misled people for political gain,” he said.

Higher compensaion

He urged the State government to enhance compensation for the victims’ families. “Of the 41 victims, 15 belonged to Scheduled Castes. The ₹10 lakh relief announced by the government is not sufficient. Additional compensation must be given, along with employment opportunities and permanent sources of livelihood for eligible family members,” he said.

Mr. Thirumavalavan alleged the BJP viewed Mr. Vijay as a tool to weaken the DMK politically. “Though Mr. Vijay may criticise the BJP as his ideological opponent, they are extending him strategic support. There is a clear political design behind their action, and Mr. Vijay should not fall prey to it,” he said.

Referring to the role of alcohol in the tragedy, he said: “Investigations reveal that many youths were under the influence of alcohol during the incident. Liquor and drugs are ruining young lives. Ahead of the election, the Chief Minister should take a firm decision to close TASMAC liquor shops.”