In an escalating row over a book launch event, the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) suspended its vice-president, Aadhav Arjuna, on December 9 for six months due to his “defiant activities,” the party announced in a statement. At the launch of a book on Dr. BR Ambedkar, Aadhav criticized the party’s ally, the DMK, for its “dynastic politics.”
The controversy stems from the launch of the book Elorukkumaana Thalaivar Ambedkar (Ambedkar: A Leader for All), co-published by Vikatan and Aadhav’s political strategy firm, Voice of Commons. The book was unveiled on December 6, Dr. Ambedkar’s death anniversary, by Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) president Vijay. Vijay, who has openly declared the ruling DMK as his party’s “political enemy,” added fuel to the political controversy surrounding the event. The incident has led to speculation of a rift in the VCK-DMK alliance.
In its statement, the VCK said, “All his defiant activities, despite repeated advice from party leaders, may superficially seem to strengthen the party. However, they have created doubts about the leadership and camaraderie within the party in the public eye. Such actions have negatively impacted the cohesive functioning of the party.” As a disciplinary measure, Aadhav Arjuna has been suspended from the party for six months.
During his December 6 speech, Aadhav took aim at “dynastic politics,” specifically accusing the DMK of fostering a “monarchy” in Tamil Nadu. He stated, “Tamil Nadu will no longer allow a monarchy to flourish. To dismantle monarchist families, we need Ambedkar’s ideologies today.”
He further added, “Preparations for the 2026 Assembly elections should focus on ending dynastic politics. Ambedkar taught us that we are all born equal. A chief minister should not be appointed based on birth; only an idealistic leader should come to power.”
Earlier this year, Aadhav stirred political debate by seemingly criticizing the appointment of Udhayanidhi Stalin as deputy chief minister. He questioned why a seasoned politician like Thirumavalavan had not been given the role instead. Aadhav also criticized the DMK for its unequal power-sharing dynamics with the VCK.