DMK's Kanimozhi Describes Meeting with Rahul Gandhi as 'Smooth', Dismisses Alliance Rift Rumors
In a significant political development, DMK deputy general secretary Kanimozhi Karunanidhi on Friday characterized her recent meeting with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi as "smooth" and firmly dismissed widespread speculations about a possible rift between the long-time political allies. The meeting, which took place in New Delhi, has been the subject of intense political discourse across Tamil Nadu.
Seat-Sharing Announcements Expected from CM Stalin
Kanimozhi revealed that Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin will be making important announcements regarding the much-anticipated seat negotiations between the two parties. "As far as I know, there is no conflict. The discussions were cordial," the DMK leader confidently told reporters during her interaction in Tirunelveli, putting to rest concerns about alliance stability.
Congress Confirms Upcoming Seat-Sharing Talks
In a related development that underscores the ongoing political coordination, Tamil Nadu Congress Committee (TNCC) chief K Selvaperunthagai confirmed to media sources that formal seat-sharing talks with the DMK are anticipated to commence next week. This timeline aligns with the broader political calendar as parties prepare for upcoming electoral challenges.
Meeting Details and Political Context
The significant meeting between Kanimozhi and Rahul Gandhi occurred against the backdrop of senior Congress functionaries publicly expressing their demand for power sharing arrangements. Sources familiar with the discussions revealed that the meeting at Rahul Gandhi's Delhi residence lasted approximately 45 minutes and effectively "resolved" the contentious issue of power sharing.
According to DMK insiders, the Congress leadership has come to understand that power sharing arrangements "were not possible" in the current political landscape of Tamil Nadu. While leaders from both parties preferred not to be quoted on the specific details of these sensitive discussions, the overall tone has been described as constructive and forward-looking.
Alliance Strength and Future Prospects
A senior DMK leader with direct knowledge of the meeting emphasized that the Congress high command holds considerable respect for the DMK and its leadership. "Both parties are ideologically aligned, and we do not wish to break ties," the leader stated unequivocally, highlighting the enduring nature of this political partnership.
Furthermore, political analysts note that the Congress leadership recognizes the strategic importance of maintaining the DMK alliance, particularly considering the support it would provide in the crucial 2029 Lok Sabha elections. This mutual understanding forms the bedrock of the ongoing negotiations and future collaboration between the two parties.
Expanding Alliance Possibilities
Kanimozhi also hinted at potential expansion of the DMK-led alliance, mentioning that there exists a genuine possibility of new parties joining the coalition. She clarified that final decisions regarding such inclusions would rest with Chief Minister Stalin, who would evaluate each potential partner based on strategic considerations and political alignment.
Congress Perspectives and Internal Discussions
During his recent interactions with senior TNCC functionaries in New Delhi, Rahul Gandhi reportedly sought their views on alliance strategies, including potential partnerships with other political entities. Multiple sources indicate that many Congress leaders expressed a clear preference for continuing the alliance with DMK, provided they receive a "decent number of seats" in the allocation.
One senior Congress leader went so far as to state bluntly that severing ties with the DMK would be politically suicidal for the party, underscoring the critical importance of this alliance for Congress's prospects in Tamil Nadu.
Political Reactions and Contrasting Approaches
TNCC chief K Selvaperunthagai offered his perspective on Kanimozhi's meeting with Rahul Gandhi, describing it as "honest and dignified" while drawing a contrast with AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami's recent visit to Delhi. "We have not exerted pressure on our ally, DMK, nor will we. We will ask for whatever we want and get it," he asserted, highlighting the mature approach adopted by both parties in these negotiations.
Upcoming Political Activities
In a separate but related development, Congress general secretary (organisation) K C Venugopal is scheduled to flag off a padayatra by TNCC workers in Chennai on February 5. This political mobilization comes as both parties prepare for the upcoming electoral season while maintaining their strategic alliance.
The political landscape of Tamil Nadu continues to evolve with these developments, as both the DMK and Congress navigate their partnership while addressing internal expectations and external political pressures. The coming weeks are expected to bring more clarity on seat allocations and the final shape of the alliance as both parties prepare for future electoral challenges.
