CHENNAI: In a political landscape marked by friction, the alliance between the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and Congress, part of the Secular Progressive Alliance (SPA), seems to be holding firm as Tamil Nadu gears up for the upcoming Assembly elections. Recent developments include the inclusion of the Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK), previously aligned with the AIADMK during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, further strengthening the coalition.

However, the Congress has been kept waiting for seat-sharing discussions, which were expected to commence earlier this month. Girish Chodankar, the All India Congress Committee (AICC) in-charge of Tamil Nadu, expressed his disappointment, stating, "We've been waiting for 78 days now. It's February; we hope the DMK will initiate talks soon." Despite these tensions, DMK MP Kanimozhi asserted the enduring nature of the alliance: "There is no possibility of change. We've weathered ups and downs before."

Political analysts suggest the Congress may have a limited hand in negotiating for seats, given its historical performance in Tamil Nadu. Political scientist Professor Ramu Manivannan believes that while the Congress will likely remain with the DMK for ideological reasons, it would be unrealistic for the party to demand more than 20 seats. He remarked, "The Congress has no significant base or strength in Tamil Nadu," stressing that 15 to 20 seats would be a generous request.

Tensions between the DMK and Congress escalated in recent weeks, as remarks from some Congress leaders stirred concerns within the alliance. The DMK leadership reportedly expects actions against certain Congress figures to mend rifts. Meanwhile, Congress party member Manickam Tagore maintained his patience in light of a gag order imposed by the party high command following the discord.

As the political atmosphere heats up, the outcome of the seat-sharing talks remains crucial for both parties, as they prepare to face voters in an election set to shape the future political dynamics of Tamil Nadu.