The DMK and Congress are set to commence discussions on seat-sharing for the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. The first round of negotiations is scheduled to take place at 10.30 am at the DMK’s headquarters in Chennai, Anna Arivalayam. The Tamil Nadu Congress Committee President confirmed that a four-member team from the party will participate in the talks.
The DMK delegation, led by party Treasurer T.R. Baalu, will include a seven-member committee appointed by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin. Amid speculation, the talks hold significance as the Congress has been exploring alternative options, including informal discussions with actor Vijay’s Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) in case negotiations with the DMK do not result in a favorable agreement.
Sources reveal that the Congress has requested over 35 Assembly seats and two Rajya Sabha berths. Previous informal discussions faced obstacles over seat allocation differences. The DMK has offered approximately 25 Assembly seats and one Rajya Sabha berth, with a potential increase to 27 or 28 seats at the maximum.
“We have to accommodate several allies and potential new partners. Meeting a demand of 35-plus seats will be difficult,” a senior leader familiar with the negotiations stated. The Congress, although dropping its earlier demand for a share in government, continues to push for a larger seat allocation and enhanced representation in various bodies. Both parties are expected to navigate internal pressures and coalition dynamics as they strive to maintain their alliance ahead of the crucial elections.
