Communist Party of India (Marxist) Tamil Nadu State Secretary P. Shanmugam explained that the CPI(M), along with the Communist Party of India (CPI) and Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), supported the Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK)-led government to prevent the imposition of President’s Rule in the State. Shanmugam emphasized that this support was not a decision of the Secular Progressive Alliance (SPA) but a strategic move to ensure political stability and respect the people’s mandate.
He highlighted that the recent Assembly election in Tamil Nadu resulted in a fractured verdict where no major party secured enough seats to form a government independently. While the DMK and AIADMK lacked sufficient numbers, TVK emerged as the largest party, giving it the first opportunity to claim government formation.
Shanmugam expressed concerns that if TVK had failed to form a government, it could have led to the imposition of President’s Rule, potentially allowing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to exert influence indirectly in the State. The support extended by the three parties aimed to prevent such a scenario that would contradict the people’s choice.
Moreover, Shanmugam indicated that the future backing for the Vijay government would hinge on its governance and delivery of electoral promises. Chief Minister Vijay’s commitment to good governance and fulfilling public expectations will determine the continued support from the CPI(M) and its allies.
During a protest against the recent fuel price hikes, Shanmugam criticized the surge in petrol, diesel, and cooking gas prices, warning about the adverse impact on the public and businesses. He particularly highlighted the challenges faced by the hotel industry due to the rise in commercial LPG cylinder prices, leading to financial hardships, job losses, and closures. Shanmugam urged the Centre to promptly reverse the fuel price increase.
