AIADMK Confirms Two-Seat Contest in Puducherry, Aims for Ministerial Role in NDA Victory
In a strategic move for the upcoming Assembly elections in Puducherry, the AIADMK, a key constituent of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), has announced its decision to contest from two constituencies. The party expressed its commitment to coalition dharma while asserting its intention to claim a share in power should the alliance emerge victorious.
Confidence in Victory Despite Reduced Seat Count
Speaking to reporters on Saturday, A Anbazhagan, the AIADMK Puducherry unit secretary, revealed that the party will field candidates from the Uppalam and Orleanpet constituencies. He expressed unwavering confidence that the NDA would retain power in the union territory, highlighting a shift from the 2021 polls where the AIADMK contested five seats but lost all.
"During the last Assembly polls held in 2021, we fought from five constituencies and lost them all. This time, we are contesting in two seats and we will win both," Anbazhagan stated. He attributed the reduced number of seats to various circumstances, emphasizing that the party is adhering to coalition principles by accepting this arrangement.
Coalition Agreement and Seat Allocation Finalized
The decision follows extensive negotiations, with talks held on March 20 and Saturday, culminating in approval from AIADMK chief Edappadi K Palaniswami. "Following the coalition dharma and upholding it, the AIADMK is contesting from only two constituencies," Anbazhagan explained, noting that the party accepted the seats happily after receiving permission from its leadership.
On Friday, the ruling AINRC and the BJP-AIADMK combine reached a formal agreement for the Assembly polls. Under this pact, the AINRC will contest 16 seats, while the BJP will fight from the remaining 14. From its allocation, the BJP has designated two seats each to the AIADMK and the Lakshia Jananayaga Katchi (LJK).
AIADMK's Clear Stance on Power Sharing
When questioned about post-election plans, Anbazhagan made it clear that the AIADMK would actively seek a share in power if the NDA wins. "Are we in politics to do charity? A natural progress for an MLA is to become a minister," he asserted, underscoring the party's ambition for ministerial roles as a logical step in political advancement.
The finalization of these arrangements involved high-level discussions, with Puducherry Chief Minister and AINRC leader N Rangasamy meeting BJP leader and Union minister Mansukh Mandaviya at a local hotel on Friday. This collaboration aims to strengthen the alliance's prospects in the upcoming polls.
BJP Announces Initial Candidate List
In related developments, the BJP released a list of nine candidates for the April 9 Assembly polls in Puducherry. Notably, Home Minister A Namassivayam has been fielded for re-election from the Mannadipet constituency, signaling the party's focus on retaining key positions.
As the election season heats up, these strategic alliances and candidature announcements are set to shape the political landscape in Puducherry, with all eyes on the outcome and potential power-sharing dynamics within the NDA.
