Seat-sharing discussions within the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance (SPA) are scheduled to commence on Sunday. The DMK is likely to follow a similar formula as in the 2021 Assembly elections, where it contested 188 out of 234 constituencies, leaving the rest for its allies. However, with new entrants like the DMDK and MNM, the negotiation dynamics have become more intricate.
Partners within the alliance have submitted their preferences for seats, and the DMK leadership will first convey the number of seats each ally can expect before delving into constituency-specific talks. Some allies are aiming for a larger share this time, with a senior Left leader indicating a demand for double-digit seat allocation compared to the previous elections.
The MDMK, which contested around 15 seats on the DMK’s symbol in the last election, might see adjustments in its seat allotment due to the alliance’s expansion. The pressure on the DMK has increased with the inclusion of the DMDK, which is speculated to be offered between six to eight seats. MNM, which allied with the DMK for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, has refrained from contesting seats and instead supported the alliance, leading to Kamal Haasan’s Rajya Sabha nomination.
Kamal Haasan has clarified that he is not directly involved in the seat-sharing talks and will announce his party’s demands at the right time, emphasizing the importance of alliance unity. As various allies seek increased representation and considerations for Rajya Sabha nominations come into play, the DMK faces the challenge of maintaining coalition unity while safeguarding its electoral interests.
