DMK Ramps Up Seat-Sharing Negotiations with Alliance Partners
In a significant political development, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) is fast-tracking seat-sharing discussions with its allies, just a day after finalizing a pact with the Congress party. With over 20 political parties in its coalition, the DMK has completed the initial round of talks with most partners, except the Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK).
Resumption of Talks After Rajya Sabha Nominations
After a brief pause to facilitate Rajya Sabha nominations, the DMK is set to resume negotiations from Friday. Party leaders indicated that the focus on Congress had delayed discussions with other allies for the past two days. Now that the Congress impasse is resolved, the DMK aims to complete remaining talks swiftly and smoothly, according to a senior DMK official.
Allies Await Second Round of Discussions
Several alliance partners are eagerly anticipating the next phase of talks. The Communist Party of India (CPI) state secretary, M Veepandian, confirmed that a third round of discussions is scheduled for Friday or Saturday to seal the deal. Similarly, DMDK principal secretary Durai Vaiko stated that talks with the DMK would commence within a day or two.
DMDK general secretary Premallatha Vijayakant announced the formation of a seat-sharing committee to engage with the DMK panel. "Now that the Rajya Sabha nomination process is over, we will establish a panel and begin negotiations for assembly election seat sharing," she remarked on Thursday.
DMK's Strategic Timeline for Candidate List
DMK organisational secretary R S Bharathi emphasized that with the Congress agreement in place, a major portion of the seat-sharing process is complete. "In the coming days, we will initiate talks with other parties," Bharathi told ToI. He added that the DMK plans to have its candidate list ready by the time the Election Commission of India (ECI) announces the election dates.
Echoing this sentiment, MDMK principal secretary Durai Vaiko expressed expectations for an invitation from the DMK on Friday or Saturday.
VCK's Seat Expectations and Party Growth
The Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), which has completed its first round of talks, is also awaiting an invitation for the second round. VCK general secretary M Sinthanai Selvan highlighted their demand for at least 10 seats, an increase of four from the previous elections.
"Our strike rate was nearly 70%, as we secured 4 out of 6 seats last time. We anticipate around 10 seats this election, which would enhance our chances of winning 7 or more MLAs. This expansion is crucial for strengthening the party's growth and meeting the requirements under the Representative of People Act to maintain ECI recognition," Selvan explained.
The DMK's accelerated efforts underscore its commitment to a cohesive alliance strategy as Tamil Nadu gears up for the upcoming assembly elections.
