Tamil Nadu Elections: DMK Offers 32 Seats to Congress, Party Insists on 38; Talks With TVK Also on the Horizon

Chennai: With the Tamil Nadu assembly elections approaching, seat-sharing talks between the Congress and DMK have hit a snag over six crucial constituencies. The DMK has proposed allocating 32 seats to Congress, but the latter is firm on claiming at least 38 seats. Congress has also insisted on the condition that it should be allocated at least one seat in every district. Earlier, the party had demanded 40 seats but later reduced its demand by two.

Adding another layer to the negotiations, Congress leaders are reportedly trying to convince Rahul Gandhi to form an alliance with actor Vijay’s newly launched party, the TVK. Sources say Congress is keen not only on winning seats but also on securing a share in power in case the coalition comes to power.

Congress Seeks Power-Sharing Post-Elections

The deadlock between DMK’s offer of 32 seats and Congress’s demand of 38 reflects the party’s strategy to maintain political significance ahead of the next state elections. Several Tamil Nadu Congress leaders are lobbying Rahul Gandhi to consider a tie-up with TVK. Congress MP Manickam Tagore stated on Monday that the party seeks not just seats but also a role in governance if the alliance emerges victorious. Party insiders say this push reflects both grassroots pressure and strategic recalibration ahead of the polls.

Congress Engages With TVK Behind the Scenes

Following Tagore’s statements on power-sharing, TVK reportedly reached out to Congress, signaling potential collaboration. A TVK spokesperson, Felix Gerald, called Congress a “natural ally” and noted the close friendship between Vijay and Rahul Gandhi. While the possibility of an alliance appears strong, internal dynamics within the Tamil Nadu Congress could delay final decisions.

TVK leader Nirmal Kumar emphasized that any coalition decision would be taken only after consultations with party chief Vijay. With roughly two months remaining until the elections, political watchers anticipate a potential realignment in Tamil Nadu’s political landscape.