Urgent Negotiations: Congress and DMK Forge Powerful Seat-Sharing Pact in Puducherry Amidst Deadline Pressure

In a significant political development ahead of the Puducherry Assembly elections on April 9, the Congress party and the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) have largely reached an agreement to share seats in double digits within the 30-member assembly. Reports indicate that the Congress is poised to contest 15 to 16 seats, although this arrangement is still pending official confirmation from party leadership.

Sources have indicated that the DMK is likely to accommodate its allies, particularly the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), within its designated share of seats. This formal agreement is expected to be finalized shortly to enable candidates to file their nominations before the March 23 deadline.

The negotiation process faced challenges, particularly regarding leadership roles within the alliance. Veteran Congress leader and former Union Minister P. Chidambaram was brought in to mediate discussions with DMK leader and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin. Reports suggest that Stalin emphasized the necessity for a cohesive strategy, stating that any misstep in Puducherry could have significant repercussions for Tamil Nadu.

Concerns were raised about the handling of seat-sharing talks, particularly regarding Girish Chodankar, the All India Congress Committee (AICC) in-charge of the party’s Puducherry affairs, whose approach was reportedly criticized by Stalin. The DMK’s S. Jagathrakshakan, a former Union Minister, is overseeing the party’s operations in the Union Territory.

As the political landscape in Puducherry heats up, the upcoming collaboration between Congress and DMK could shape the future of governance in the region. With both parties now actively engaging in finalizing their electoral strategy, the eyes of political observers are keenly focused on the developments leading up to the election.

Puducherry’s electorate will be watching carefully, as the outcome could set the tone for future alliances and political maneuvers in the Union Territory.

Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/elections/puducherry-assembly/puducherry-assembly-election-2026-congress-dmk-likely-to-seal-15-15-seat-deal-in-union-territory/article70771777.ece
Category : Puducherry
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Publish Date: 2026-03-23 02:37:00