Chennai: As the Tamil Nadu elections approach, political equations in the state are undergoing significant changes. In a recent development, TTV Dhinakaran, the leader of the Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK), has rejoined the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Dhinakaran had previously left the NDA due to differences with Edappadi K. Palaniswami, but on Wednesday, he met with Piyush Goyal, the BJP’s in-charge for Tamil Nadu.
Dhinakaran claims that the NDA is the only alliance capable of defeating the DMK, asserting that their strength lies in unity. In response to AMMK’s re-entry into the NDA, DMK leaders have downplayed the impact, stating that their party will not suffer any losses from this political shift. Dhinakaran had previously indicated his departure from the alliance but has recently been praising actor Vijay, the leader of the Tamil Gethu Vetrikuzhu, sparking speculation about a possible alliance between their parties.
Reports suggest that discussions have taken place between Dhinakaran and Vijay’s party, leading to rumors that Dhinakaran’s recent moves might have caught Vijay off guard. Meanwhile, Piyush Goyal, the Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, is ramping up efforts to finalize seat allocations within the NDA coalition. As of today, January 12, he is engaged in consultations with various parties to solidify the alliance’s strategy.
The BJP’s entrance into the coalition led by the AIADMK is already known, and party factions are working diligently to strengthen the NDA’s position in the state. Key ministers including Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal, and Civil Aviation Minister Muraleedharan Mohan are actively involved in the political negotiations. Goyal has completed discussions with the AIADMK and is now expanding talks with other parties interested in joining the NDA.
Among those already aligned with the NDA is the PMK, led by Anbumani Ramadoss. Extensive discussions are also underway with various other parties, including GK Vasan’s Tamil Manila Congress and AC Shanmugam’s Pudhiya Needhi Katchi. While these parties are currently part of the NDA, negotiations regarding seat distribution are ongoing.
In a significant development, Piyush Goyal’s efforts to bring TTV Dhinakaran and the AMMK into the NDA have been successful. Dhinakaran’s party is set to officially join the NDA, with a major rally planned on January 23 in Madurantakam, aimed at uniting all coalition leaders and showcasing the strength of the NDA.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to attend this rally, prompting rapid preparations for the event. Arrangements are being made for Modi to travel to Madurantakam via helicopter, with a special helipad being set up for his arrival. The outcome of Goyal’s strategic efforts to announce the NDA coalition will be observed closely, particularly as he continues to communicate with AIADMK General Secretary Palaniswami regarding the alliance’s future.
