A proposal to nominate Seeman, the Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) chief coordinator, as a joint opposition candidate for the upcoming Ambasamudram Assembly by-election in Tamil Nadu is encountering opposition within his own party. The idea of seeking support from the Dravidian majors has met with resistance from senior NTK members and supporters who advocate the party’s tradition of contesting elections independently.
Political circles are abuzz with speculation following Seeman’s appearances alongside DMK President M.K. Stalin and Leader of Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin at separate events. This has sparked discussions about a potential shift in the relationship between NTK and DMK, especially with the rise of TVK as a significant political entity in the state.
VCK president Thol. Thirumavalavan has added fuel to the debate by suggesting that the DMK is contemplating endorsing Seeman as a mutual opposition candidate in the bypoll. He noted the apparent improvement in Seeman’s relations with the DMK leadership, despite being a vocal critic in the past.
Despite the growing political speculation, sources reveal that the proposal lacks support within the NTK. Many party officials argue that aligning with either DMK or AIADMK would dilute the party’s ideological stance, cultivated over 15 years of consistent opposition to the Dravidian parties.
Talk of Seeman’s potential candidacy in the bypoll gained traction as some party members urged him to contest, aiming to rejuvenate NTK’s political standing after a lackluster performance in the 2026 Assembly elections. Seeman’s defeat in Karaikudi and the party’s reduced vote share in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections have prompted internal discussions on the party’s future strategy.
As the by-election dates draw near, it seems Seeman has decided to set aside the proposal due to internal dissent and the ongoing political discourse surrounding the matter.
