Chennai, February 5: The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) has identified the Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) as a key ally in its early preparations for the Tamil Nadu assembly elections. Both parties are currently in discussions regarding seat-sharing and long-term political collaboration.
In a bid to strengthen its electoral strategy well ahead of the elections, DMK has reportedly offered DMDK seven assembly seats along with a Rajya Sabha seat that will become vacant in April.
This proposal is seen as part of the ruling party’s broader strategy to solidify its coalition base and retain control over a larger number of seats. However, DMDK has allegedly demanded more seats, seeking up to 14 assembly constituencies. The party is also keeping its options open by engaging in parallel talks with the NDA, adding an element of suspense to the negotiations. Despite this, DMK leaders remain hopeful that an agreement will be reached soon.
The ruling party aims to finalize the coalition arrangement quickly to advance its organizational preparations. Before formally concluding seat allocations with its allies, DMK plans to complete a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral lists.
Sources within the party indicate that DMK intends to contest at least 170 of the 234 assembly seats, slightly fewer than the 173 seats it contested in the 2021 elections. This reflects its confidence in maintaining the current government.
While negotiations with DMDK remain central, DMK is also quietly exploring other political options to expand its coalition. This includes discussions with expelled AIADMK leader O. Panneerselvam, who may either form a separate party or align directly with DMK. However, internal assessments suggest that his ability to transfer votes may be limited, reducing the necessity for such an alliance.
Nonetheless, the pathways for negotiations remain open. Ongoing discussions indicate that DMK leadership is focusing on creating a practical and numerically strong coalition rather than merely symbolic partnerships.
In the coming days, it is expected to be determined whether DMDK will become a cornerstone of the ruling front or choose a separate political path.
