Political temperatures are rising in Tamil Nadu as DMK’s Secular Progressive Alliance launches seat-sharing parleys this weekend. The incumbent party signals intent to mirror 2021’s winning strategy, but a chorus of allies demands expanded turf amid new joiners complicating matters.
DMK’s 2021 sweep saw it claim 188 of 234 assembly seats, allotting 25 to Congress and minimal to juniors. Now, DMDK’s integration and MNM’s alliance role inject fresh variables into the mix.
Insider briefings suggest an initial reveal of aggregate seat numbers per partner, paving way for constituency-level haggles. A senior voice explained, ‘Preferred lists are in; we’ll advance methodically.’
Allies aren’t backing down. A veteran leftist remarked on upgrading from six seats to double figures. MDMK, a past beneficiary of 15 DMK-symbol contests, braces for recalibration. DMDK’s clout could translate to 6-8 seats.
Kamal Haasan’s MNM, post its 2024 non-contest support yielding a Rajya Sabha ticket, maintains distance from fray. ‘Direct involvement isn’t me; demands forthcoming, unity paramount,’ he stated.
DMK treads a delicate path, juggling heightened ally expectations—including representational boosts and upper house perks—while safeguarding its poll machinery. Failure to strike equilibrium risks fractures, but success could fortify the front against rivals. Watch this space for unfolding strategies.