High-stakes political negotiations are underway in Tamil Nadu as expelled AIADMK leader O. Panneerselvam (OPS) seeks a formal alliance with the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), the party launched by actor-politician Vijay. The talks, however, have hit a stumbling block over the number of assembly seats to be allotted, revealing a significant divide within the OPS camp itself.
The Seat-Sharing Stalemate
OPS has formally requested 20 assembly constituencies for his group, now functioning under the banner of AIADMK Rights Retrieval Kazhagam, to join the TVK-led front. However, the TVK leadership has conveyed its willingness to offer only up to 15 seats. A senior TVK leader disclosed the progression of the discussions, stating that while Vijay initially suggested offering 12 seats, the number was later increased to 15. This counter-offer has been formally communicated to the OPS team.
Close associates of the former chief minister have confirmed these details, adding that a final decision is pending. The seats sought by the OPS faction are reportedly concentrated in three key southern districts of the state: Madurai, Ramanathapuram, and Theni.
Internal Divisions and the DMK Factor
A major reason for the delay in OPS announcing his decision is a sharp internal split. A significant section of his supporters is advocating for an alliance with the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), arguing that it offers a higher probability of electoral victory. An associate of OPS claimed that approximately 70% of their camp favors joining the DMK, while the remainder objects.
Those within the group who are batting for the TVK alliance counter that they would be able to secure not just more seats, but also preferred constituencies. Prominent voices reflect this division. Former MLA and OPS supporter Kunnam R. T. Ramachandran stated he expressed his view in favor of TVK, but the final call rests with OPS as some want a DMK alliance. Meanwhile, senior aide R. Vaithilingam is reportedly among those unconvinced about a TVK tie-up.
Leadership Handling the Negotiations
The negotiations are being handled on OPS's behalf by his son, O. P. Ravindranath, a former MP, along with former AIADMK MLAs. They are engaging with TVK's chief coordinator, K. A. Sengottaiyan. Sengottaiyan clarified to reporters in Coimbatore on Sunday that OPS would not merge his outfit with TVK but would join the TVK alliance as a partner.
Despite these ongoing talks, OPS himself has maintained a cautious public stance and has refrained from making any official statements regarding joining the TVK alliance. This public silence underscores the unresolved tensions and competing pressures within his political circle as they weigh their options ahead of future elections.
