In a significant move to strengthen their electoral alliance, the DMK and VCK have finalized a seat-sharing agreement for the upcoming Tamil Nadu polls. The deal grants the VCK eight Assembly constituencies, with six reserved and two general seats. The agreement was officially signed at the DMK headquarters, Anna Arivalayam, in the presence of Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and VCK chief Thol Thirumavalavan.
Sources suggest that the VCK had sought a larger share, including double-digit seat allocations and a Rajya Sabha berth, but settled for a slightly increased share compared to the previous election. In the 2021 polls, the VCK contested six seats and won four, enhancing its bargaining power this time. The increased allocation for the 2026 elections underscores the DMK’s efforts to maintain its ally’s support while balancing the broader alliance.
With the seat-sharing deal now confirmed, the VCK has agreed to abide by the terms set by the DMK, resolving weeks of uncertainty. This development is crucial for the ruling party as it strives to solidify its alliance ahead of the elections. The DMK is set to engage in further discussions with other allies to finalize seat allocations before the nomination process commences, aiming to streamline campaign efforts and enhance coordination across constituencies.
The VCK, however, announced its independent contest in three Assembly constituencies in Puducherry due to delays in finalizing seat-sharing within the DMK-led alliance in the union territory.
