AIADMK Embraces Coalition Dharma, Secures Two Seats in Puducherry NDA Pact
In a significant political development, the AIADMK, a key constituent of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), announced on Saturday that it has happily agreed to contest from two constituencies in the upcoming Puducherry Assembly polls. The decision was framed as a gesture to honor coalition dharma, with the party firmly asserting its intention to claim a share in power should the alliance emerge victorious.
Strategic Seat Allocation and Confidence in Victory
Speaking to reporters, AIADMK Puducherry unit secretary A Anbazhagan revealed that his party will contest from the Uppalam and Orleanpet constituencies. He expressed unwavering confidence that the NDA would retain power in the union territory, highlighting a strategic shift from the previous election cycle.
"During the last Assembly polls held in 2021, we fought from five constituencies and lost them all," Anbazhagan stated. "This time, we are contesting in two seats, and we will win both. Due to several circumstances, AIADMK is fighting from a reduced number of seats. Following the coalition dharma and upholding it, the AIADMK is contesting from only two constituencies."
Negotiations and Leadership Approval
Further elaborating on the decision-making process, Anbazhagan noted that talks were held on March 20 and Saturday, culminating in the acceptance of the two seats after receiving explicit permission from party chief Edappadi K Palaniswami. "We accepted two seats happily," he affirmed, underscoring the party's commitment to the alliance's broader objectives.
Clear Demand for Power Share
When questioned about the party's post-election aspirations, the AIADMK leader left no room for ambiguity. He declared that his party would definitely seek a share in power if the NDA secures a win. "Are we in politics to do charity? A natural progress for an MLA is to become a minister," Anbazhagan asserted, emphasizing the party's pragmatic approach to political participation and governance.
Alliance Structure and Candidate Announcements
The ruling AINRC and the BJP-AIADMK combine finalized their electoral agreement on Friday, setting the stage for the polls. According to the pact:
- The AINRC will contest 16 seats.
- The BJP will fight from the remaining 14 seats.
This arrangement was cemented after Puducherry Chief Minister and AINRC leader N Rangasamy held discussions with BJP leader and Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya at a local hotel. From its allocated seats, the BJP has designated two seats each to the AIADMK and the Lakshia Jananayaga Katchi (LJK), ensuring representation for key allies.
BJP Candidate List Released
In a related move, the BJP on Saturday released a list of nine candidates for the April 9 Assembly polls in Puducherry. Notably, the party has fielded Home Minister A Namassivayam for re-election from the Mannadipet constituency, signaling confidence in his incumbency and the alliance's cohesive strategy.
This electoral setup underscores the NDA's concerted effort to present a united front in Puducherry, with the AIADMK playing a pivotal role despite a reduced seat count, all while eyeing ministerial positions in a potential victory scenario.
