Chennai, Aug 11 (IANS) BJP leader Vanathi Srinivasan on Tuesday played down speculation about a possible alliance between the BJP and the DMK in Tamil Nadu, saying political alliances would be announced by the parties concerned if and when such a decision was taken.
Her remarks came amid renewed political discussions over possible realignments in the state following the formation of the Tamil Nadu government headed by Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay. The changing political landscape and movement of leaders between parties have fuelled speculation about new combinations ahead of the next parliamentary election.
Several political leaders, including former AIADMK ministers, have shifted their political affiliations since the change of government. Against this backdrop, sections of the ruling establishment have also raised the possibility of the DMK and BJP coming closer before the parliamentary polls.
The speculation gained further attention following remarks by DMK MP Kanimozhi Somu, who said political parties should be prepared to support initiatives that were beneficial to Tamil Nadu, irrespective of where they originated. “There are no permanent enemies or friends in politics. Whatever is good for Tamil Nadu, wherever it comes from, we will certainly accept and welcome it,” Kanimozhi Somu had said.
Her comments triggered questions over whether the DMK was signalling a possible change in its approach towards the BJP, despite the two parties having remained political rivals in Tamil Nadu.
Asked about the remarks and whether they indicated the possibility of a DMK‑BJP alliance, Vanathi Srinivasan sought to dismiss the speculation. Responding to a question on the observation that there were no permanent friends or permanent enemies in politics, the senior BJP leader said there was little point in predicting an alliance before the parties themselves had taken any such decision.
“When a DMK‑BJP alliance is formed, they will tell you. It appears that you are allying even before it is actually formed,” Srinivasan said, taking a swipe at the speculation surrounding the issue.
Her remarks stopped short of categorically ruling out such an arrangement, while making it clear that there was no announcement regarding an alliance at present.
With Tamil Nadu politics witnessing considerable churn after Vijay assumed office, statements by senior leaders on future alliances are expected to remain under scrutiny as political parties begin positioning themselves for the next major electoral contest.
–IANS
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