AIADMK to Conclude Seat-Sharing Talks with BJP and Allies in Four Days, Says Palaniswami
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Chennai, March 20 (NationPress) The AIADMK is poised to finalize its seat-sharing agreements with the BJP and other allies within the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in the next four days, as confirmed by party general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami on Friday. This announcement highlights that the discussions are advancing well ahead of the crucial Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.
In his remarks to the press, Palaniswami rejected any rumors of discord within the alliance and expressed optimism that a satisfactory arrangement would be established soon. “In four days, all details will be revealed. We will finalize and disclose the constituencies assigned,” he stated, emphasizing that the talks have been conducted in a “smooth and effective” manner.
The former Chief Minister pointed out that the key principle governing the seat-sharing process would be the potential for victory.
He explained that constituencies would be distributed to allies based on their electoral strength and winning prospects. “Our aim is to assign seats to our allies where they have the best chances of victory,” he added.
Palaniswami’s comments followed his meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi, which he described as amicable, noting that both leaders engaged in extensive discussions regarding the changing political dynamics in Tamil Nadu and strategies for the upcoming elections.
Reiterating the momentum of negotiations, Palaniswami indicated that BJP’s Tamil Nadu in-charge Piyush Goyal is anticipated to visit the state on Saturday to continue discussions and assist in finalizing the agreements.
In response to ongoing rumors regarding a potential alliance with actor Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), Palaniswami firmly denied any such conversations. “As the general secretary of AIADMK, I have consistently maintained that we have not engaged in talks with TVK. There is no foundation for such claims,” he insisted.
He also dismissed the possibility of new parties joining the NDA at this juncture, asserting that the alliance structure has already been established.
On a different note, Palaniswami addressed the controversy involving AIADMK Rajya Sabha MP C. Ve. Shanmugam regarding comments made about actress Nayanthara. He remarked that the issue should be considered resolved, as the MP has already issued an apology. “He has acknowledged his error and expressed remorse. It would be inappropriate to continue discussing it,” Palaniswami concluded.