Stalin’s DMK Finalises Seat Sharing Allies For Upcoming Polls

The ruling DMK in Tamil Nadu finalized seat-sharing agreements with allies VCK and MDMK on Friday (March 8), reiterating the pact made in 2019 with both parties. The Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) was assigned two seats, both of which are reserved constituencies, while the Vaiko-led MDMK was granted one seat by the alliance’s principal partner. In 2019, MDMK was also given one Rajya Sabha seat.

The founders of VCK and MDMK, Thol Thirumavalavan and Vaiko, respectively, concluded and signed the seat-sharing agreement with DMK President and Chief Minister M K Stalin at the ruling party’s headquarters, Anna Arivalayam.

Mr. Thirumavalavan informed reporters that the party will contest from Chidambaram and Villupuram, the same two seats it currently represents in the Lok Sabha. Thirumavalavan was elected from Chidambaram five years ago.

While the party initially sought three seats, including one in the general category, it agreed to settle for two reserved constituencies, taking into account the political landscape in Tamil Nadu and India. This decision was made to ensure the victory of the DMK-led alliance once again, as stated by the VCK leader.

The party intends to contest using its own symbol, the earthen pot, but has also requested the Election Commission for a general symbol, as it plans to field candidates in around 15 seats in Karnataka, Kerala, and Telangana as well.

MDMK founder Vaiko mentioned that while the seat-sharing agreement has been finalized, the specific constituency from where his party will contest will be announced at a later date.

Vaiko stated that the seat-sharing agreement was concluded and signed by Stalin and himself, expressing satisfaction with the arrangement.