Despite rumours of friction within the alliance, both the Congress and DMK moved quickly on Friday to project a united front, confirming that formal seat-sharing negotiations will kick off in about a week. TNCC chief K Selvaperunthagai, speaking to reporters in Tiruvallur, dismissed any talk of a rift, expressing total confidence that the Congress would secure its fair share of constituencies without having to resort to arm-twisting. He noted that the relationship is one of mutual understanding, suggesting they wouldn't need to "pressure" their ally to get what they want.
The optics of the alliance were further bolstered by Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam Deputy General Secretary Kanimozhi, who described early discussions as "smooth." While she kept the specifics of her recent meeting with Rahul Gandhi under wraps, she assured reporters in Tuticorin that Chief Minister MK Stalin would make a formal announcement the moment the deals are inked. Selvaperunthagai also couldn't resist a jab at the opposition, contrasting Kanimozhi’s "straightforward and dignified" meeting with Gandhi against AIADMK leader Edappadi K Palaniswami’s recent visit with Amit Shah, which he mockingly described as a "masked" or secretive affair.
The history between the two parties sets a high bar for these talks; back in the 2021 Assembly elections, the DMK allotted 25 seats to the Congress, which managed to convert 18 of those into wins. As the next election cycle approaches, the focus remains on whether the Congress can maintain or expand that footprint. For now, both camps seem intent on keeping the peace publicly, emphasising that the "captain" of the DMK will have the final word on the numbers once the upcoming week of intense bargaining concludes.
Also read: By skipping Assembly speech, TN Guv disrespected office: Stalin
Follow us
