VCK to organise ‘Save Secularism’ rally on June 14 in Tiruchi

Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi has rescheduled its protest rally labelled ‘Save Secularism’ calling for a repeal of the Wakf Amendment Act, which was recently passed in the parliament, from May 31 to June 14, to give themselves time to mobilise their target of ‘at least 5 lakh’ people in Tiruchi.

While the party leaders have said that the protest rally is being held in order to safeguard secularism in tune with its ideological position of opposing Hindutva forces, many admit that larger secular parties are impacted by the Hindutva political narrative that secular parties often privilege the interests of the minorities at the expense of the interest of the majority.

Speaking at a press conference in Cuddalore, VCK president and Chidambaram M.P., Thol. Thirumavalavan, said, “Apart from calling for a repeal of the Wakf act, the ‘blue shirt’ rally would also protest against BJP’s attack on Constitution urging democratic forces should come together on one platform. I hope that all democratic forces join the ‘Save Secularism’ rally.” He once again said that the VCK continues to be in the DMK alliance.

VCK general secretary D. Ravikumar, added that the party has significantly accommodated minorities within the party. “All parties should provide more representation to Muslims. We have given one seat for a Muslim candidate (Aloor Shanavas) out of 6 seats allotted to us though our Muslim support base is not significant. We have accommodated them as office bearers and also as district secretaries,” he said.

Asked if VCK would give more tickets to minorities in upcoming State Assembly elections, he said, “If senior partner allots seats to us, we will accommodate more minorities and women.”