DMK exits INDIA alliance as Congress backs Vijay's TVK in Tamil Nadu. Kanimozhi writes to Lok Sabha Speaker for new seating. Political shockwaves hit.
NEW DELHI/CHENNAI : In a move that has sent shockwaves through the national political landscape, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) has officially exited the INDIA Alliance. The decision comes after the Congress party decided to extend its support to the newly formed Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), led by actor-turned-politician Vijay, to form the government in Tamil Nadu.
The rift between the long-term allies reached a breaking point, leading DMK MP Kanimozhi to write a formal letter to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. In her letter, she stated, "Due to the prevailing political situation, our alliance with the Congress has ended. The DMK parliamentary party no longer wishes to sit with the Congress in the House. Please arrange separate seating for our MPs."
The Numbers Game in Tamil Nadu
The political realignment was triggered by the recent assembly dynamics in Tamil Nadu. Vijay’s TVK secured 108 seats, falling short of the magic figure of 118. To prevent the BJP-AIADMK combine from gaining ground, the Congress, with its 5 MLAs, strategically chose to support TVK. Congress insiders suggest this move was aimed at shielding TVK from becoming the "B-team" of the BJP.
However, this "strategic decision" has deeply offended Chief Minister MK Stalin. Despite the DMK and Congress sharing a history of cooperation against the Modi government in Parliament, the local power struggle has now overshadowed national interests.
Impact on National Politics and BJP’s Advantage
Political analysts believe that this split is a massive boost for the NDA. A fractured opposition strengthens the position of PM Narendra Modi and Amit Shah in the Lok Sabha. Speculation is rife that the DMK may eventually tilt toward the NDA, with rumors suggesting a potential ministerial berth for Kanimozhi in the central cabinet.
The collapse of the INDIA alliance in the south will directly benefit the ruling party during crucial legislative votes, noted a senior political commentator.
A Turning Point in Parliament
Ironically, this split occurs shortly after a rare victory for the opposition. On April 17, the 22 DMK MPs had joined forces with the Congress, TMC, and Samajwadi Party to defeat a Constitutional Amendment Bill introduced by the Modi government. It was a historic moment where the treasury benches failed to pass a bill. But with AAP already maintaining distance and now DMK walking out, the unity of the INDIA alliance seems to be crumbling.
While Speaker Om Birla is yet to take a final call on the seating arrangements after consulting the Parliament Secretariat, the message is clear: the political map of Tamil Nadu has changed, and its tremors are being felt in New Delhi.
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