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NDA's Tamil Nadu Unity Tested as Ramadoss, Sasikala Eye Solo Runs

The NDA in Tamil Nadu faces internal strain as veteran leader S. Ramadoss of the PMK and V.K. Sasikala signal potential independent electoral plans. Their moves could split the alliance's crucial vote base in the state's northern and southern regions. While the AIADMK-led front recently gained TTV Dhinakaran's AMMK, Sasikala's intervention remains a wildcard that previously eroded AIADMK votes. With both figures exploring options outside the NDA framework, the alliance must manage internal aspirations to maintain cohesion ahead of the polls.

Key Points: NDA's Tamil Nadu Alliance Faces Split Over Seat-Sharing

  • PMK's internal influence split
  • AMMK's past vote-splitting impact
  • Backchannel talks to prevent NDA fracture
  • Sasikala's potential new outfit
  • Multi-cornered contest risks
2 min read

NDA faces tightrope walk in TN as Ramadoss, Sasikala weigh independent plans

PMK's S. Ramadoss and V.K. Sasikala consider independent election plans, threatening NDA's vote base in Tamil Nadu's northern and southern belts.

"Any divergence within the PMK could have repercussions in northern districts where the party has traditionally enjoyed a strong presence. - Political Analysts"

Chennai, Feb 17

The National Democratic Alliance in Tamil Nadu is grappling with fresh uncertainties amid indications that factions led by veteran leader S. Ramadoss of the Pattali Makkal Katchi and V.K. Sasikala could field candidates independently in the upcoming Assembly election.

Senior leaders in both the AIADMK and the BJP are understood to be engaged in consultations and quiet backchannel talks to prevent a potential split in the alliance's vote base -- particularly across the politically sensitive northern and southern belts of the state.

At present, the Anbumani Ramadoss-led PMK remains a key constituent of the NDA. However, questions persist within political circles about whether Anbumani commands the consolidated support of the Vanniyar community or whether his father, S. Ramadoss, continues to wield decisive influence over cadre and voters.

Any divergence within the PMK could have repercussions in northern districts where the party has traditionally enjoyed a strong presence.

In southern Tamil Nadu, the AIADMK-led front recently received a boost with the entry of TTV Dhinakaran's Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK), which had secured a measurable vote share in the previous Assembly polls. Yet, concerns linger over the possible intervention of Sasikala, Dhinakaran's close relative.

In the last election, candidates backed by the AMMK split the AIADMK's votes in several constituencies, impacting the party's performance. Speculation is rife that both Ramadoss and Sasikala may explore independent options if seat-sharing negotiations fail to meet their expectations.

Efforts by Ramadoss to open channels with the DMK are learnt to have made little headway, reportedly due to resistance from allies such as the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK).

Sasikala, who has not been formally accommodated within either the AIADMK or the NDA framework, is also said to be weighing her options. Possibilities include floating a new political outfit or reviving the Anna Dravidar Kazhagam launched earlier by her brother, V.K. Divakaran.

Political analysts note that a multi-cornered contest in Tamil Nadu could dramatically reshape electoral arithmetic in several key constituencies.

For the NDA, managing internal aspirations while maintaining regional cohesion may prove decisive in the months ahead.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
As someone from the northern districts, I can say the PMK's internal tussle is very real. Anbumani is popular with the youth, but many elders still listen only to Dr. Ramadoss. A split will only help the DMK front. They need to sort this out for the sake of their community's political future.
S
Sarah B
Interesting analysis. From an outside perspective, Tamil Nadu's politics seems incredibly complex with so many factions. A multi-cornered contest could indeed lead to unexpected results. The NDA's challenge is to present a united front.
V
Vikram M
Sasikala factor is being overhyped. Her time has passed. The real issue is whether the AIADMK+AMMK combine can hold together. If they do, they stand a good chance in the south. But yes, too many independents will split the anti-DMK vote. Classic Tamil Nadu political suicide.
A
Aditi M
Respectfully, I think the article misses the ground-level sentiment. People are tired of this alliance politics and "vote bank" management. We want development and governance, not these endless negotiations between leaders. Hope the election is fought on issues for once.
K
Karthik V
The VCK's resistance to PMK talks with DMK shows how caste equations still dominate TN politics. It's a tightrope walk indeed. If both Ramadoss and Sasikala go solo, it will be a festival for political analysts and a nightmare for the NDA managers! 😅

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