DMK steps up seat-sharing discussions with allies

With the announcement of the Tamil Nadu Assembly election schedule, the ruling DMK is stepping up seat sharing with its allies like CPI, CPI(M), VCK and the newly-formed DMDK.

While the Left parties are insisting on more seats than the six allotted to them in 2021, the DMK leadership points out the constraints arising from the expansion of the alliance. Talks between DMK and Left parties will resume on March 17 as DMK holds its district secretaries meeting on Monday.

Sources said the DMK may allocate five seats each to the CPI and CPI(M) and also limit the DMDK count to a single digit as the party’s candidate LK Sudhish has been given a Rajya Sabha seat. As for the Congress, DMK gave it 28 votes, three more than last time. “DMDK is demanding double-digit seats but we cannot accept its demands,” said a source.

VCK leaders say at least 10 seats will justify the party’s strength and convince the cadre. However, DMK is inclined to reserve eight seats for itself, down from six last time.

The DMK leadership refused to believe that actor-TVK founder Vijay would join the AIADMK-BJP alliance. A senior DMK leader said Mr. Vijay would not accept the deal as it would expose him completely. “If it joins hands with the BJP, it will be easy for us to campaign against the alliance. We will win the election easily,” he said.