DMK-Congress tussle fuels hung Assembly buzz ahead of 2026 polls
February 24, 2025: As Tamil Nadu heads toward the 2026 Assembly election, seat-sharing negotiations between the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and the Indian National Congress have intensified. Congress has reportedly sought 35 seats, while the DMK is said to be willing to offer only a marginal increase over the 25 seats allotted in 2021. Meetings between senior leaders, including Chief Minister M K Stalin and AICC representatives, have taken place in Chennai, with DMK MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi indicating that discussions would continue after consultations with the party leadership.
The friction has sparked speculation about alternative political equations, particularly involving actor-turned-politician Vijay and his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam. Reports suggest Congress leaders have explored possible engagement with Vijay’s outfit if their seat demands are not met. Political observers warn that a split in the anti-AIADMK vote could narrow margins in key constituencies and even raise the prospect of a hung Assembly, potentially positioning smaller parties as kingmakers.
Adding complexity to the arithmetic is the recent induction of the Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) into the DMK-led front, alongside other allies seeking representation. Congress is also pushing for a share in local body polls and a Rajya Sabha assurance, though both sides have publicly described talks as “positive”. With negotiations set to continue, Tamil Nadu’s political landscape remains fluid, and the final seat formula could significantly shape the 2026 electoral outcome.