Chennai: Discontent over seat-sharing has surfaced within the DMK-led alliance, with the MDMK saying it is unhappy with the number of constituencies allotted to it.
According to the arrangement, the MDMK has been given four seats, compared with six in the previous election. The understanding also includes the party contesting under its own symbol in one constituency and under the DMK’s ‘Rising Sun’ symbol in three constituencies.
Other allies have also expressed dissatisfaction. VCK, which expected a double-digit share, has been allotted eight seats, while the two Communist parties have been given five seats each—one fewer than last Assembly election.
In contrast, the newly inducted DMDK has been allotted 10 seats and one Rajya Sabha seat. Against this backdrop, discussions on which constituencies will go to which allies have begun at the DMK headquarters, Anna Arivalayam, in Chennai.
After talks on MDMK’s constituencies on Wednesday, party presidium chairman Arjunaraj told reporters, “Some laugh, some cry; we are crying while laughing. Seats have not been given in line with our merit.” DMK representatives also held talks with leaders of the Kongu Makkal Desiya Katchi and the Mukulathor Pulipadai.
