AIADMK-BJP Alliance Seat-Sharing Talks Shift to Delhi with High-Level Meetings
Seat-sharing negotiations within the AIADMK-BJP alliance have moved to the national capital, as AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami (EPS) traveled to Delhi on Thursday for a crucial meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah. According to AIADMK sources, EPS called on Shah around 10 pm, engaging in a detailed discussion aimed at resolving key issues ahead of the upcoming polls scheduled for April 23.
Key Players Set to Join Talks in Delhi
AMMK general secretary T T V Dhinakaran and Tamil Nadu BJP president Nainar Nagenthran are expected to fly to Delhi on Friday morning to participate in the seat-sharing discussions with Amit Shah. Following these talks, Union Minister Piyush Goyal is slated to visit Tamil Nadu to finalize and formally sign the seat-sharing agreements with alliance partners in Chennai.
Focus on Constituency Claims Rather Than Seat Numbers
AIADMK insiders revealed that EPS's visit to Delhi and his meeting with Shah primarily centered on disputes over specific constituencies, rather than the overall number of seats. Both BJP leaders and AIADMK functionaries have expressed interest in key constituencies such as Singanallur, Nagercoil, Madurai (West), Madurai (North), Thiruparankundram, Tiruttani, Coimbatore (North), Coimbatore (South), and Velachery.
When questioned about the speculation regarding conflicts over these seats, Nainar Nagenthran stated, "There is nothing wrong in seeking constituencies that we wish for." Despite these tensions, senior leaders from both parties expressed confidence that the EPS-Shah meeting would help iron out differences and pave the way for a formal agreement in the coming days.
Seat Allocation Numbers and Alliance Dynamics
Regarding the number of seats, the AIADMK leadership has reportedly agreed to allocate up to 29 seats to the BJP, while the BJP had been demanding 30 seats. This slight discrepancy is part of the ongoing negotiations, with both sides optimistic about reaching a consensus.
A senior AMMK functionary confirmed Dhinakaran's planned visit to Delhi on Friday to finalize his party's seat share. The functionary added, "If things go as planned, the formal signing of the agreement would take place in Chennai on Saturday in the presence of Union minister Piyush Goyal, EPS, and leaders of other alliance partners—PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss, TMC (M) leader G K Vasan, and others."
Internal Surprise and Decision-Making Processes
Within the AIADMK, leaders noted that although a panel was formed to handle seat-sharing talks, all major decisions are being made by EPS. His unexpected trip to Delhi came as a surprise to many second-rung leaders, highlighting his central role in the alliance's strategic planning.
This development underscores the intense preparations and high-stakes negotiations as political parties gear up for the Tamil Nadu elections, with the AIADMK-BJP alliance working to solidify their partnership and present a united front to voters.
