March 11, 2016
Tamil Nadu is likely to see at least a four-corner fight, a first-of-its-kind in the State, with the Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) led by Vijayakanth announcing its stance to go alone at the polls.
Till 2011, the State-level politics was dominated by two Dravidian parties – the Jayalalithaa-led AIADMK and M. Karunanidhi-led DMK.
This is also the first time that BJP, which had allied with DMDK, MDMK and PMK during last Parliament elections, is almost isolated this time in the State.
An alliance with the AIADMK government not looking too bright, it has the only option to approach PMK, which is expected to bring in votes from the Vanniyar community in western and northern districts. The community comprises seven per cent vote share from the total electorates in the State.
While ADMK’s archrival DMK has tied-up with Congress, Indian Union Muslim League and Puthiya Tamizhagam Katchi, the ruling Party has hinted that it will contest the election without any allies after snapping ties with DMDK and the two communist parties.
Though Congress has gained a negative image, particularly after its stand on the Sri Lankan Tamils issue and the release of seven convicts in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case, the DMK led by M. Karunanidhi is confident to put up a good show in the State.
MDMK chief Vaiko, who is leading the ‘Third Front – People’s Welfare Front (PWF)’, which comprised the VCK and the two Left parties, has already launched his poll campaign with other leaders in the State.
All the political parties have almost completed their list of candidates and the poll campaign is likely to start in the next couple of weeks.
A clear picture of electoral alliances for the upcoming Assembly election in Tamil Nadu is expected to emerge by next week, as seen from the current scenario.