In a significant political development in Chennai, the AIADMK and the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) have officially joined forces, setting the stage for a major battle in the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. The alliance was announced on Wednesday by AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami alongside PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss.
A 'Natural Alliance' Against the DMK
Addressing the media at his Greenways Road camp office, Palaniswami described the partnership as a "natural alliance" born from the wishes of party workers and leaders. He stated that the primary objective is to unseat the ruling DMK, which he labeled an "anti-people" regime, and to establish a strong government in the state.
"The AIADMK and the BJP have already come together. With the PMK now joining the alliance, it has become stronger," Palaniswami declared. He expressed confidence that this victory-oriented coalition would successfully defeat the DMK and hinted that more parties are likely to join the front soon.
Seat-Sharing and Campaign Strategy
The leaders revealed that a broad consensus on seat-sharing has been reached, with the finer details to be made public shortly. Emphasizing a unified campaign effort, Palaniswami urged the cadres of the AIADMK, BJP, and PMK to work "day and night, like a bee" to ensure a triumphant return of an AIADMK-led government.
Echoing the sentiment, Anbumani Ramadoss called it a "happy moment" and stated the PMK's decision to align was driven by the goal of removing a "corruption-ridden" DMK government. He accused the current administration of failing farmers, fishermen, government employees, and the working class while acting against social justice.
"There is palpable anger among the people against this government. They are waiting for the elections to remove it from power. We are set to witness a massive victory," Anbumani asserted.
Delhi Talks and Unanswered Questions
While the announcement solidified a key partnership, the leaders sidestepped questions regarding internal differences within the PMK or potential efforts to bring the party's founder, senior Ramadoss, into the alliance fold.
In a related development, sources indicate that Palaniswami, accompanied by senior leader SP Velumani, is scheduled to travel to Delhi to hold discussions with Union Home Minister Amit Shah. This meeting follows Velumani's extensive talks with Shah during the latter's recent two-day visit to Tiruchi for party programs.
The formation of this alliance marks a crucial consolidation of opposition forces in Tamil Nadu, potentially reshaping the electoral landscape as parties gear up for a high-stakes contest.
