The ongoing delay in finalizing seat-sharing arrangements for the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections has raised concerns for the Congress-DMK alliance in Puducherry. The DMK has announced its intention to contest in three constituencies within the Karaikal region, but uncertainties surrounding negotiations with Congress in Tamil Nadu are hindering parallel discussions in the Union Territory.
Karaikal district comprises five Assembly segments, of which the DMK currently holds two: Karaikal South and Neravy-T.R. Pattinam. Senior DMK leaders, including MLAs from Puducherry, indicate plans to incorporate Karaikal North into their electoral strategy. A senior DMK official expressed optimism, stating, “This will strengthen the party’s organizational presence in Karaikal and give us greater momentum ahead of the elections.”
However, sources within the DMK attribute the standstill in Puducherry seat-sharing talks to the broader impasse between the DMK and Congress in Tamil Nadu. A Puducherry DMK leader remarked, “There is discomfort over how the talks are progressing there, and that has had a direct impact here.” The political landscape in Puducherry necessitates coordination between the two parties, especially given the smaller constituencies and their interdependence. A former Leader of the Opposition emphasized, “Neither can function effectively without the other.”
Amidst this backdrop, Congress has ramped up its organizational efforts in DMK-held constituencies. A Karaikal MLA noted increased activity among Congress workers who are actively identifying potential local candidates. The unfolding events in Puducherry are expected to reflect the outcomes of the negotiations in Tamil Nadu, with a senior DMK leader stating, “If the alliance is finalized smoothly in Tamil Nadu, the same will follow here. Otherwise, we’ll have to adapt our strategy accordingly.”
Currently, the DMK controls six of the 30 Assembly seats in Puducherry, while Congress holds two. Historically, the DMK last governed Puducherry in 1996 under Chief Minister R.V. Janakiraman. In the previous election, the DMK contested 13 seats, securing six wins, while Congress fielded candidates in 14 seats but won only two. A senior DMK official revealed plans to contest more seats this time, aiming for at least 15, to solidify an ideology-driven political base. “Puducherry politics is largely individual-centric, with frequent shifts in allegiance, making it crucial for us to expand our electoral presence,” he added.
Conversely, Congress leaders have emphasized that any decisions regarding seat-sharing will require consultations with the party’s high command. A senior Congress member acknowledged awareness of reports suggesting some DMK figures may be leaning towards the AINR Congress, stating, “We will act strictly as per instructions from the high command.”
As discussions continue, the implications for both parties remain significant, with the potential to reshape the political landscape in Puducherry ahead of the upcoming elections.
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/dmk-may-contest-for-three-seats-in-karaikal/article70607093.ece
Category : Tamil Nadu
Tags:
Publish Date: 2026-02-08 18:14:00
